MARUDI – The Gawai Day celebration must be more than just a festive occasion; it should be fully embraced as a platform to preserve culture and strengthen unity, especially among younger generations returning to their hometowns.
Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government, Datuk Dr Penguang Manggil, said the celebration holds deep cultural significance for the Dayak community and must be utilised to promote heritage, especially in the face of modernisation.
“Gawai is not just about food and entertainment. It’s about preserving identity, transmitting values, and uniting communities,” he said at the Ngiling Tikai Thanksgiving Ceremony held at Good Shepherd Badminton Hall, Marudi, on Friday.
As the Marudi State Assemblyman (ADUN), Dr Penguang called on the community to ensure customs and traditions are passed on to the younger generation and maintained through such annual gatherings.
He also highlighted the role of churches and religious institutions as vital pillars in fostering harmony and resilience, regardless of denomination. As a representative of the Unit for Other Religious Affairs (UNIFOR) Trust Board, he encouraged continued applications for support in maintaining houses of worship and community-driven activities.
The event, which marks the end of the Gawai celebration, saw the symbolic rolling of mats — Ngiling Tikai — a deeply rooted tradition that brings people together and reaffirms their cultural belonging.
