KUCHING: The vibrant spirit of the Brarak and Bipajak Gawai Bisegu Festival 2024 was undeterred by heavy rain as over 1,000 enthusiastic participants from six villages gathered at Kampung Segu Bunuk, Jalan Puncak Borneo here yesterday (June 2).
Held in conjunction with the Gawai Dayak celebration, the event marked the second instalment of the festival, highlighting the rich cultural heritage of the Bidayuh community.
The parade commenced at around 5pm, despite the persistent rain since the morning, with participants donned in their colourful traditional costumes, demonstrating their determination to celebrate the festivities.
As the contingents marched by, each house offered welcoming ‘tuak’ and snacks to the participants and spectators as a gesture of hospitality and celebration.
Puncak Borneo MP Datuk Willie Mongin was present to officiate and lead the parade in the area.
He said the parade aims to strengthen the bonds between the Besegu Bunuk community.
“This is the second time we are organizing this parade, as we held a similar event last year. The aim is to strengthen the bonds between the Bisegu Bunuk community, which encompasses seven villages,” he said when met by reporters during the parade.
He added the parade is a suitable time for families to spend time together and showcase the culture of the local community.
Additionally, he hopes that in the future, the parade will see participation from outside Kampung Segu Bunuk.
“We will extend invitations to other associations, and the sense of togetherness must be present. For the past year, we have started in Kampung Segu Bunuk, and the idea to invite outsiders to join this festival is a good approach,” he added.
Willie also noted the festival’s role as a platform for the younger generation to appreciate and preserve their cultural heritage.
“I hope this platform will be used by the youth to remember and cherish their culture so that it does not fade away with time,” he said.
The parade earlier featured contingents from Kampung Sorot Bunuk, Kampung Sumur Bunuk, Kampung Sibatuh Bunuk, Kampung Bratan, Kampung Segu Bunuk and the Padawan 4×4 Adventure Club Kuching, adding to the festive atmosphere and cultural celebration.
