KUCHING: Andy Lawrence, Deputy Information Chief of Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS), expressed his disagreement with academic Datuk Dr Jayum Jawan’s perspective on the Kumang Gawai Beauty contest.
Jayum voiced what Lawrence described as “antiquated views” regarding the contest, sparking a debate on the cultural evolution and modern expressions of tradition within the Dayak community.
“I argued that the Kumang Gawai contest is not demeaning, as Jayum suggested, but rather serves as a vibrant celebration of Dayak culture,” he said in a statement yesterday (May 10).
He emphasised that the contest showcases the beauty, talent, and cultural richness of the community, amplifying traditional customs in the age of social media and spreading them globally.
“Highlighting the historical significance of parading Dayak women during various Gawai festivities, this tradition symbolised beauty, cultural richness, and the craftsmanship of the community’s artisans,” said Lawrence.
He questioned Jayum’s emphasis on the original Dayak or Iban culture of Gawai, suggesting that the festival’s eligibility should be based on a broader understanding and appreciation of Dayak culture that reflects the modern community’s reality.
Lawrence’s critique raises important questions about the intersection of tradition, cultural evolution, and modernity within the Dayak community, inviting further dialogue and reflection on the significance of contemporary expressions of cultural heritage, he said.
