KUCHING: The festive atmosphere of Gawai and Kaamatan was palpable at The Carls Harvest Fiesta hosted by Carlsberg Malaysia at the Farley Kuching Shopping Mall here on Thursday.
This event, part of the ‘Raikan Kebanggaan Sabah & Sarawak’ campaign, was a lively celebration featuring the Carlsberg Smooth Draught’s Carls Harvest Pesta.
The festival attracted large crowds, among whom a particular booth stood out, KEDSxblair.
Here, modern artworks printed on T-shirts were a major draw.
The booth owner Shella Blair shared her enthusiasm: “It is very Gawai, happening, and I like the live band, free beer, the food and our shop,” she told New Sarawak Tribune.
Shella and her sister-in-law sell mostly Bidayuh accessories and T-shirts featuring artistic designs.
“My sister-in-law Kedung is the artist; she draws them, but I turn them into something ready to wear,” she added.
She also said that their T-shirts, available in black or white, offer the idea that you should ‘wear your identity with style’.
At their booth, Shella’s friend Sylvia assists in selling handmade accessories, including bracelets and traditional necklaces.
“We make these on our own, and her mother sews some of the clothing,” she said.
Shella often sells her items and custom designs at event booths whenever opportunities arise.
Endu Yollanda, 26, an Iban engineer, was also immersed in the full spirit of Gawai at the event.
“I enjoyed the performances and some of the dance performances. The vibe here is very happening,” she said, eagerly awaiting the headline performance by At Adau on stage.
The event featured a variety of interactive activities, such as customising tote bags and straps with rice beads and was entertained by live performances.
Dance performers from the Sarawak Cultural Village (SCV), dressed in traditional costumes, energised the crowd, encouraging them to dance along.
The four-day event, which began on Wednesday, will continue until Saturday (May 25).
