Gawai Dayak Bazaar Rakes in RM1.61 Million, Becomes a Highlight of Miri's Economic and Cultural Exchange

(Miri, 24th) In conjunction with the upcoming Gawai Dayak Festival, the Gawai Dayak Bazaar 2025 organized by the Sarawak Dayak Association (GADS) concluded last night with a grand closing ceremony at the Permyjaya Commercial Center in Miri.

The event, which kicked off on May 1 and spanned 23 days, carried the theme 'Trading, Friendship, and Harvest Festival Celebration.' It successfully attracted nearly a hundred vendors, drawing large crowds and creating a lively atmosphere.

Sarawak Transport Minister and Senadin State Assemblyman, Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin, was invited to officiate the closing ceremony. In his speech, he highly commended the success of the event and lauded GADS for its active efforts in promoting the economic and cultural development of the Dayak community.

He noted that the Gawai Dayak Bazaar, now in its 11th edition, has become a highlight of Miri's 'Mayfest,' showcasing the vibrant Dayak culture and serving as a key platform for local economic and tourism development.

“Since its inception on September 3, 2015, GADS has quickly emerged as a very active organization within the Dayak community, not only organizing bazaars but also nurturing talents and entrepreneurial skills through leadership training, entrepreneurship courses, and the Gawai Dayak pre-launch ceremony, thus enhancing the overall socio-economic level of the community.”

Lee Kim Shin highlighted that this year's bazaar was grand in scale, featuring 74 stalls covering food and beverages, handicrafts, and other merchandise, attracting tourists from all over Sarawak and even overseas to experience the unique cultural style.

“GDB is not just a commercial platform but the hotbed of entrepreneurial spirit for the Dayak community. This year, the vendors generated over RM1.61 million in revenue, a significant increase from last year's RM1.25 million, proving that the community possesses immense commercial potential.”

He emphasized that this event also serves as a strong social cohesion force, bringing together different ethnic groups to participate in performances, competitions, and cultural exchanges, fully showcasing the harmonious coexistence of Sarawak's diverse cultures.

Lee Kim Shin expressed gratitude to the organizing committee members, GADS President David Upe, and all participating vendors, promising to seek more support and resources for GADS and future plans within his capability. 

“We want to continue this entrepreneurial spirit, unity, and cultural pride, using this year's success as the motivation to reach greater heights next year.” 

In his speech, Lee Kim Shin further pointed out that Sarawak not only hosts the Gawai Dayak Bazaar but also the Chinese New Year Bazaar during the Chinese New Year and the Ramadan Bazaar during the fasting month for the Malay community. Hence, he suggested establishing a Christmas Bazaar during Christmas for all communities to 'celebrate together and enjoy together'. 

“This is the uniqueness of Sarawak's people. We live in a harmonious large family, regardless of race or religion, with mutual respect and co-existence.” 

He emphasized that festival bazaars are not just shopping platforms but windows for cultural exchange, providing participants with opportunities for extra income and deserving to be annual events. 

“Everyone can dine, have tea, work, and celebrate their festivals together. This harmony is the best portrayal of Miri and the true reflection of Sarawak's multiculturalism.” 

Finally, he wished the crowd a Happy Gawai Festival and offered festive blessings in the Dayak language: “Selamat Hari Gawai, Gayu Guru Gerai Nyamai, Lantang Senang Nguan Menua.”