Kechendai (seated second left) posing for a group photo with the residents. – Ukas photo
SELANGAU (June 2): The Gawai Dayak 2026 celebration at Rumah Panjang Kepayang Jaya, Sungai Arip, was marked by vibrant cultural festivities aimed at preserving the customs, traditions and heritage of the Dayak community amid rapid modernisation.
Tuai Rumah Kechendai Kalob of Kepayang Jaya said the annual celebration is not only a thanksgiving festival but also an important platform for safeguarding cultural practices passed down through generations.
According to a report by Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas), the celebration began on the morning of May 31 with the Beranchau Tikai ceremony, which signified the official commencement of Gawai Dayak 2026.
In the afternoon, residents performed the Miring ceremony at the Tiang Pengingat as a mark of respect for traditional customs and beliefs.
The Pengawa Mupuka Antu Rua ritual was also conducted.
As night fell, residents took part in the Bejalai Niti Ruai procession, dressed in traditional attire such as the Ngepan Iban, Baju Burung and Kain Burie.
Residents took part in the bejalai niti ruai procession. – Ukas photo
Many also wore new outfits, including kebaya and batik attire, symbolising joy and gratitude in celebrating the harvest festival.
One of the highlights of the celebration was the Makai di Ruai feast, where a wide variety of traditional and modern dishes were served.
Popular traditional delicacies such as pansuh and pulut were among the favourites enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.
Guests were welcomed to move freely from one ruai to another throughout the 27-door longhouse, sampling food and strengthening ties with family and friends.
Various activities and competitions were also organised to foster closer bonds among residents.
“Many longhouse members working in towns and cities, including those in Peninsular Malaysia and other parts of Sarawak, returned home to celebrate Gawai with their families and relatives.
“Gawai is the best time for us to reunite with family members and relatives whom we rarely get to meet throughout the year,” said Kechendai.
This year’s celebration was further enlivened by the Ngirup Ai Pengayu ceremony and a range of competitions, which received an enthusiastic response from longhouse residents and visitors.
Kechendai expressed hope that such celebrations would continue to strengthen community unity while ensuring that the rich cultural heritage of the Dayak people remains relevant and appreciated by future generations.
