Gawai Dayak Holiday in Malaysia

Gawai Dayak is an annual festival celebrated by the Dayak people in Sarawak, Malaysia, and West Kalimantan, Indonesia. It is a cultural and religious holiday that marks the end of the rice harvesting season. The term "Gawai" means festival, and "Dayak" is a collective name for the native ethnic groups of Sarawak (and neighboring regions), primarily the Iban and Bidayuh people.

History

The festival was formally recognized on 25 September 1964 by the Malaysian government. Before this, it was celebrated in a more informal manner by individual communities. The push for official recognition was to acknowledge and preserve the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous peoples.

Traditions

Gawai Dayak features various traditional rituals, ceremonies, and practices:

• Thanksgiving Rituals: These rituals give thanks to spiritual entities for a bountiful harvest.
• Miring Ceremony: Offerings are made to deities during this ceremony.
• Beauty Pageants: The crowning of Miss Gawai adds festivity to the celebration.
• Ngabang (Open House): People visit friends and family, sharing food and drinks such as 'tuak', a traditional rice wine.

Activities on Gawai Dayak

During Gawai Dayak, activities typically include:

• Cultural Performances: Traditional dances and music performances are common.
• Traditional Games: These are organized for both children and adults.
• Feasting: An abundance of food is prepared, featuring local delicacies.
• Wearing Traditional Costumes: Participants dress in their traditional attire.

The celebration starts on the evening of May 31st with a ceremony called 'Muai Antu Rua' (to cast away the spirit of greediness), signaling the start of festival peace. It continues officially for one day on June 1st but often extends for several days as people continue to celebrate informally with their community.