BY LEONG Z-KEEN
KUCHING: Dayaks, both young and old, are looking forward to reuniting with their familes in their hometowns to celebrate Gawai.
Many locals were seen at the Kuching Sentral Complex and Bus Terminal, lining up to buy bus tickets while waiting for bus coaches to head back to their hometowns.
Speaking with New Sarawak Tribune, Jackquiline Bandung Kemarau, a 25-year-old restaurant waitress said she was looking forward to reuniting with her family members and neighbours in Kapit.
“I am looking forward to drinking ‘tuak’ with my family members and neighbours as it has been a long time since I travelled back,” she said.
Meanwhile, 23-year-old university student Mac Goverson Tungkat said he was anticipating activities like finding the Ranyai tree, doing traditional dances, singing and many more back in Pakan, Sarikei.
“For me, I really want to partake in the Ngajat dance where I can dance to the music and some of the competitions done by my neighbours and family.
“Besides that, I am also looking forward to drinking ‘tuak’ with all the people attending the Gawai celebration at a nearby longhouse,” he said.
Suraini Johnny, a 27-year-old store operator said she wants to partake in the Ngajat dance because most of her family members would be present during the Gawai celebration.
“We rarely do the traditional dance since most of the family members hardly have the time to get together.
“This year, I am awaiting the time to perform the Ngajat dance alongside my family members who are also travelling back to Sri Aman,” she said.
Contract worker Timothy Empading Dagang, 21, is excited to carry out activities like Miring (an offering ceremony) and witnessing the Pekit Kumang (beauty pageant).
“These are the two activities my family and I would participate in during the Gawai celebration.
“I am also anticipating the Ai Pengayu toasting in the longhouse at midnight on June 1 with my family members,” he said.
