THE vibrant spirit of Sarawak comes alive with the celebration of Gawai Dayak, a festival deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of the native ethnic groups of Sarawak, such as theIban, Bidayuh, Kayan, Kenyah, Kelabit, Murut, and Lun Bawang.
Gawai, originating from the Iban language, translates to ritual or festival, symbolising the culmination of the rice harvesting season and a time for gratitude, prayers, and unity.
Preparations for Gawai begin early, marked by the brewing of "tuak" and the crafting of traditional delicacies such as "kuih penganan", "kuih sarang semut", "kuih chuan", "pulut lulun", and "manuk daun ubi lulun".
The longhouses undergo meticulous cleaning, adorned with the vibrant "pua kumbu' displayed on walls and tables.
As the festival approaches, celebrants don traditional costumes, with women wearing the "ngepan" and "sugu tinggi" (Iban maiden headgear), and men donning "cawat" or "sirat" (loin cloth) accompanied by necklaces, armlets, and peacock feather headgear.
The celebration commences on the evening of May 31 with the Muai Antu Rua, a symbolic act of casting away the spirit of greed.
Families throw unwanted articles into a "chapan" (winnowing basket), dragged through the longhouse to discard the unwanted items, signifying the expulsion of bad luck.
A "miring" (offering ceremony) follows, expressing gratitude to the gods for the bountiful harvest.
As the sun sets, a procession known as Ngalu Petara takes place, with young maidens and warriors in traditional attire parading seven times along the "ruai" (open area in the longhouse) to welcome the spirit of the gods.
At midnight, a toast with Ai Pengayu (special tuak) is shared, accompanied by the wish for "Gayu Guru, Gerai Nyamai" – Long Life, Health, and Prosperity.
The festivities include traditional dances like Ngajat, where males emulate the courage of a hornbill, and females perform graceful moves symbolising joy.
The atmosphere is filled with music and traditional folklore, and blowpipe competitions showcase participants' skills.
On the first day of June, the homes of the Dayaks open to visitors in a custom known as Ngabang. Guests are welcomed with "ai tiki", symbolising hospitality.
For Christian Dayaks, attending a church mass service is an integral part of Gawai, thanking God for the harvest.
Gawai Dayak extends for several days, marked by joyous celebrations, making it an auspicious time for weddings and baptisms.
Gawai embodies the essence of Sarawak's rich cultural tapestry, inviting everyone to join in the festivities and experience the warmth of Dayak hospitality.