KUCHING (May 20): The Bau Gawai Parade, a vibrant celebration that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Bau district, will now be held every two years, announced Tasik Biru assemblyman Dato Henry Harry Jinep.
Speaking at the inaugural launch of the event on Saturday, Dato Henry Harry Jinep expressed his delight at the enthusiastic response from the local communities. The first-ever Bau Gawai Parade saw over 800 participants representing 43 contingents. The 2.4km procession started from the Bau Civic Centre and wound its way through Bau town, finishing at Lobuh Bau.
“We are targeting 100 contingents at the next 2026 Bau Gawai Parade with the involvement of all villages and associations in the Bau district,” said Henry, outlining ambitious plans for the future growth of the event.
Henry, who also serves as the Transport Deputy Minister, awarded prizes to the five best and most creative contingents, acknowledging their efforts in making the parade a memorable event.
The event was graced by several distinguished guests, including political secretary to the Sarawak Premier John Nyigor, Bau district officer Constantine Gerald David Jonas, Bau District Council secretary Ong Chin Ping, and Kuching Division Bidayuh community leader Temenggong Atok Derop.
The decision to make the Bau Gawai Parade a biennial event aims to ensure better planning and increased participation, promising an even grander celebration in the years to come.
