MIRI: The Gawai Dayak Bazaar here serves as a vital platform for celebrating and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the Dayak community, says Deputy Public Health, Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Dr Penguang Manggil.
“Beyond just a cultural event, it also plays a crucial role in enhancing entrepreneurship among the Dayaks and generating economic opportunities for the locals,” he said.
Speaking at the pre-launching of this year Gawai Dayak Bazaar 2024 hosted by Persatuan Gagasan Anak Dayak Sarawak (GADS) last night (Mar 23), Penguang said by providing a space for Dayak entrepreneurs to display and sell their products, the bazaar not only promotes economic growth within the community but also encourages creativity and innovation.
“Through this platform, Dayaks are able to connect with a wider audience and expand their businesses, ultimately contributing to the overall development of the Dayak community, thus, it serves as a catalyst for empowering Dayak entrepreneurs and preserving their cultural heritage,” he pointed out.
Penguang has also proposed the inclusion of the bazaar as a tourism event in Miri, recognizing its potential to attract visitors and showcase the unique cultural heritage of the region.
“By incorporating this traditional festival into the tourism calendar, Miri can further promote itself as a destination rich in cultural diversity and vibrant community celebrations,” he told the crowds.
He pointed out that the Gawai bazaar offers a glimpse into the rich traditions and customs of the indigenous communities in Sarawak, providing tourists with an authentic and immersive experience.
“With proper planning and promotion, the Gawai bazaar has the potential to become a key highlight on Miri’s tourism calendar, attracting both domestic and international visitors seeking to immerse themselves in the local culture,” Penguang emphasised.
On another hand, Penguang who is also Marudi assemblyman stressed the importance of Dayak Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) coming together and working collaboratively towards a common goal for the betterment of the community.
“By uniting, these organisations can amplify their voices and have a stronger impact on issues affecting the Dayak people. Through solidarity and cooperation, they can address challenges more effectively and advocate for the needs and rights of the community to the government with a unified front. As such, it is crucial for Dayak NGOs to set aside differences and work towards a shared vision of empowerment and progress for the Dayak people. Only by standing together can they achieve meaningful and sustainable change,” he explained.
At the event, Penguang made a generous pledge of RM20,000 to support the association’s efforts for the upcoming Gawai Bazaar.
This year, the bazaar will kick off on May 1 until May 26 at Permyjaya , Miri.
The Gawai Dayak Bazaar event by GADS was first held back in 2015 and proved to be a resounding success, generating an impressive RM1.6 million in sales in 2022.
Also present at the Gawai Dayak bazaar pre-launching were GADS chairman David Upe and its deputy chairman Jimmy Lawie.
