KUCHING – The Sekretariat Rukun Negara Sarawak Gawai Dayak Bazaar 2025, held at Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus from 19 to 21 May 2025, brought together diverse communities in a colourful and lively celebration of culture.
The program, organised by Swinburne Sarawak Sekretariat Rukun Negara (SSSRN) in collaboration with the Sarawak Department of National Unity and Integration and the Sarawak Arts Council, aimed to foster unity and strengthen ties between the younger generation and local communities through arts and culture.
The bazaar featured a wide range of engaging activities, from artistic and cultural demonstrations to folk dances, as well as exhibitions and stalls selling traditional Dayak crafts and clothing. A selection of diverse food offerings added to the festivities, allowing visitors to enjoy a taste of local cuisine.
A spirited cultural dance performed at the opening ceremony.
Among the highlights were demonstrations of traditional craft-making by the Orang Ulu and Iban communities, performances of traditional musical instruments such as Tabuh Iban, and showcases of traditional clothing-making techniques.
The traditional dance performances, including the Ngajat dance, not only entertained attendees but also encouraged their participation through interactive sessions alongside the performers. Visitors had the opportunity to explore exhibitions and stalls showcasing authentic Dayak cultural products such as beadwork, traditional clothing, and delicacies such as manok pansuh.
In total, close to 70 small- and medium-sized traders participated, offering an array of products including clothing, cosmetics, food, and beverages.
One of the stalls selling Dayak beaded accessories.
The event also saw the involvement of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and associations such as the Ngajat Asal Iban Association (NGASI), Sarawak Dayak Iban Association (ASADIA), Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA), and the Sarawak Kayan Association. The participation of the Sekretariat Rukun Negara of higher education institutions in Kuching and Samarahan further enhanced the program’s synergy and collaborative spirit.
The smooth and successful execution of the event was also made possible through the strong support of its main sponsors, Ghee Hua Co Sdn Bhd and Lok Thian Group of Companies.
The opening ceremony of the event was officiated by Mr Giri Anak Nyareng, Deputy Director of the Sarawak Department of National Unity and Integration, and was also graced by YB See Chee How, State Assemblyman for N11 Batu Lintang. The closing ceremony was attended by Mr Giri Anak Nyareng and Cr Alvin Chong from Padawan Municipal Council, representing YB Dato Ir Lo Khere Chiang, State Assemblyman for N13 Batu Kitang.
Mr Giri Anak Nyareng (fourth left), YB See Chee How (third left), and other guests at the opening ceremony.
Dexter Hu Siang Ching, President of SSSRN and Program Director, expressed gratitude for the successful organisation of the event in his closing speech. He emphasised that the event not only showcased the beauty of Sarawak’s culture but more importantly, it created a space for unity and goodwill among students, campus communities, and the wider public present.
“As a student and President of SSSRN, I’m truly pleased to see the event run successfully. I was deeply moved by the overwhelming response from the participants and the strong support from visitors. We are already planning an even bigger event in the future,” he said.
Meanwhile, Dr Serit Banyan, SSSRN Advisor, remarked that such programs greatly benefit students by equipping them with event management experience while providing opportunities to develop essential skills such as time management and leadership.
“The Gawai Dayak Bazaar truly reflects the spirit of unity among Sarawakians. I hope we can continue hosting such events in the future,” he said.
Visitors getting a hands-on experience with traditional music instruments.
The Sekretariat Rukun Negara Sarawak Gawai Dayak Bazaar 2025 made a meaningful impact by celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Dayak community and fostering unity within Sarawak’s multicultural society, in line with the tagline “Beserakup Segulai Sejalai Hari Gawai”, which means being united and moving forward together on Gawai Day. In addition, the event supported local entrepreneurs and highlighted Swinburne Sarawak’s commitment to cultural sustainability.
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