SIMUNJAN – The streets of Simunjan Town were transformed into a vibrant cultural tapestry on Saturday as 24 contingents joined the Niti Daun Parade, a key highlight of the Simunjan District-level Gawai Dayak 2025 celebration.
Dressed in stunning traditional costumes and moving to the rhythm of ethnic music, the contingents represented various races, displaying the rich cultural diversity of Simunjan. The event was symbolically opened with a Miring ceremony, an Iban traditional ritual, reinforcing the spiritual and cultural significance of the celebration.
The programme was officiated by Batang Sadong MP Rodiyah Sapiee, who praised the organisers for their commitment and vision.
“This is the first time a Niti Daun event of this scale has involved so many ethnic groups. It reflects the deep unity and pride of our people,” she said in her speech.
Rodiyah proposed that the Niti Daun Parade be added to Simunjan’s official annual event calendar, citing its potential as a tourism draw and a platform for cultural education.
She emphasised the need to engage youth in preserving heritage through more initiatives such as cultural symposiums, and lauded groups like Kampung Senangeh’s Gendang Pampat ensemble for taking traditional art to new heights.
“Young people must embrace our heritage — in dance, music and attire — and elevate it. This is how we share our unique Iban identity with the world,” she added.
Among those present were Simunjan ADUN Awla Dris, his wife Napsiah Abang Kaderi, District Officer Sanuyah Mohamad, Acting Secretary of the Simunjan District Council Sabli Razak, Penghulu Jubin Sili, and other community leaders.
The event not only celebrated Gawai Dayak, but also embodied unity in diversity, marking a new chapter in Simunjan’s cultural calendar.
