Sarawak Dayak Parade Showcases Dayak Heritage, Strengthening the Spirit of Unity Among Ethnic Groups

Published at Jun 21, 2026 11:23 am
(Kuching, 21st) The 'Cultural Parade' (Niti Daun) of the 2026 Sarawak State-level Gawai Dayak Celebration successfully attracted the participation of 114 teams, showcasing the multiculturalism, traditions, and identities of Dayak communities from across Sarawak.

Sarawak Deputy Premier and Chairman of the 2026 State-level Gawai Dayak Celebration Organizing Committee, Datuk Amar Douglas, stated that the enthusiastic participation reflects the Dayak community's steadfast commitment towards preserving their cultural heritage, while also strengthening the spirit of unity among people of various ethnic groups.

“This year, we witnessed the participation of 114 teams, including 15 decorated floats and 99 walking parade teams. Most impressively, some minority ethnic groups rarely seen in such large events were also involved.”

He made these remarks during a media interview yesterday after attending the 'Cultural Parade' of the 2026 Sarawak State-level Gawai Dayak Celebration officiated by Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg in Kuching.

He said this year’s parade also saw the involvement of minority ethnic groups that have previously received little attention, such as the Remun and Tagal communities, enriching the cultural showcase presented to the public.

The robust participation from Dayak associations and ethnic communities from all across Sarawak also demonstrates their determination to elevate and sustain their generational cultures and traditions, ensuring they remain vibrant and are known to future generations.

He added that the parade is not only a platform for showcasing cultural heritage, but also an important medium to introduce the diverse identities of the Dayak community to Malaysians and tourists attending the celebrations.

Meanwhile, Datuk Amar Douglas regarded the successful organization of the 'Cultural Parade' as a testament to the solid spirit of unity among the Dayak communities drawn from various ethnicities and backgrounds.

He noted that participants from provinces such as Lawas, Miri, and the interior were willing to take time off and travel great distances to ensure the success of the event, presenting the unique cultures of each of their communities.

“This is the Dayak community's contribution to national unity and harmony. We have demonstrated that although composed of different ethnicities and cultures, we can be united as one, working together to ensure the success of events that hold significant social meaning.”

He hopes that the public will continue to appreciate the role of the Dayak community in strengthening national unity through cultural heritage preservation, which is also an integral part of Malaysia's unique identity.

The 'Cultural Parade' is one of the highlights of the 2026 Sarawak State-level Gawai Dayak Celebration, bringing together various cultural performances, traditional costumes, performing arts, and symbols of Dayak heritage from all over Sarawak.

Author

Tan Chok Bui


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