KUCHING: With the mood of Gawai and Raya this year in Sarawak that brings a two-in-one celebration, Kampung Semeba is ready to play host to its special Gawai Dayak celebration here today.
According to the organising committee spokesperson, Wes Marid, the event which includes booths selling traditional items and foods as well as an exhibition officially started yesterday.
“There will be lots of activities organised this year such as a colouring contest for children, a cooking competition that involves healthy food and traditional Bidayuh food, and weaving the leaves to make a traditional roof, as well as a beauty pageant that will be held tomorrow night.
“Kampung Semeba is divided into four zones so we are inviting at least six people to participate from each of the zones,” she said.
Wes also said that the programme aims to preserve the cultural identity of the Bidayuh community, particularly for the Bidayuhs in Kampung Semeba and especially for the new generation.
For today’s event, a series of talks will be held on various topics such as rabies prevention and food bank initiatives.
For the beauty pageant, this year’s competition will involve ten “Dari Ngigap” and nine “Dayung Sangon” and invited performing acts include, among others, former Miss World Malaysia Dewi Liana Seriestha.
Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Deputy Minister Chong Chieng Jen, who is also Kota Sentosa assemblyman and Stampin MP, is expected to attend the event.
