(Letter to Editor) Dayak activist extends congralutations to newly formed Gawai Dayak organising committee 2026

By Peter John Jaban

Congratulations to the New Gawai Dayak Organising Committee 2026
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the newly appointed lineup of the Gawai Dayak Organising Committee 2026.

Peter John Jaban: Gawai Dayak is not simply a festive gathering. It is a sacred season of thanksgiving, renewal, and honouring the blessings of the land and our ancestors

Your appointment is not merely a ceremonial recognition, but a responsibility entrusted the new committe to safeguard, elevate, and strengthen the true spirit of Gawai Dayak a celebration that reflects our gratitude, identity, unity, and cultural pride as the people of Sarawak.

Over the years, the Gawai Dayak Parade has grown into one of Sarawak’s most significant cultural highlights.

 With the continued commitment and support of the Sarawak government, this annual celebration has evolved into a powerful symbol of heritage and harmony, drawing more than 3,000 participants from over 100 contingents representing Sarawak’s rich and diverse communities.

The Dayak community respectfully conveys its sincere appreciation to the Sarawak government for its consistent support and for the confidence and privilege entrusted to us in organising the parade each year.
 This commitment has enabled the event to flourish as a platform that celebrates Dayak traditions while strengthening unity and community pride.

As we build upon this success, we respectfully call upon the Sarawak government to consider increasing the funding allocated for the annual Gawai Dayak Parade. Enhanced financial support would allow organisers to expand the scale of the parade, improve its overall quality, and diversify participation  including inviting more contingents from across Sarawak and also Dayak communities from Sabah & Kalimantan, Indonesia.

With greater resources, the parade can be elevated into a premier international cultural event that enhances Sarawak’s global visibility, strengthens tourism, and benefits all Sarawakians.

 We reaffirm our full support for the state’s cultural and tourism development vision and remain committed to working closely with the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, the Sarawak Tourism Board, and other relevant agencies to ensure its continued growth and success.

In the spirit of upholding the dignity of our customs and ancestral wisdom, we respectfully propose that, should the parade be held in Kuching, it commence from the ulu (upriver) and proceed in accordance with the natural flow of the river.

The Iban worldview the river is not merely a physical feature it represents the flow of life, sustenance, and cosmic order. Our forefathers lived by the rhythm of the river, and direction carried meaning beyond geography.

Among elders, the expression “mali nanjak ai” serves as a reminder not to move against harmony and balance. It reflects the philosophy that human actions should align with nature rather than oppose it. In ceremonial contexts especially, symbolic direction matters because it reflects intention, respect, and spiritual awareness.

Gawai Dayak is not simply a festive gathering. It is a sacred season of thanksgiving, renewal, and honouring the blessings of the land and our ancestors. 

Therefore, ensuring that the parade moves in harmony with the natural flow would symbolise continuity, prosperity, and alignment with adat values handed down through generations.

This proposal is made not as criticism of past practice, but as a sincere effort to deepen cultural authenticity and reinforce the spiritual meaning of our celebration. By observing such symbolic alignment, we affirm that Gawai Dayak remains rooted in its true heritage while growing in scale and recognition.

We also propose that the Gawai Dayak Parade conclude with a vibrant Gawai Food Fair in Padungan. ( Finishing point )

 This would not only offer an opportunity for all participants and visitors to experience the rich culinary heritage of the indigenous people of Borneo, but also create a festive, family-friendly atmosphere that celebrates unity, culture, and community spirit.

To the new committee members, may your leadership be guided by wisdom, integrity, inclusiveness, and teamwork. May Gawai Dayak 2026 truly embody the spirit of "Segulai Sejalai" walking together in unity.

Note:
Peter John Jaban 
Founder 
Gabungan Orang Asal Sarawak ( GOAS )