KUCHING: Gawai Dayak celebration is more meaningful today because the lives of the people of Sarawak, especially the Iban, Bidayuh, Kayan, Kenyah, Kelabit and Lun Bawang have changed a lot better.
This change for the better is made possible by a people-centric government, said Head of State Tun Abdul Taib Mahmud in a press statement issued recently.
“The people of Sarawak are now able to seize many opportunities that arise in the state due to the availability of development to upgrade their standard of living,” he said.
He acknowledged that a lot of young people have migrated to towns but hoped that the migration is not solely for jobs.
“Equally important is these young people will continue to enhance socialisation with the existing multi-racial community in efforts to maintain the existing harmony and unity.
“That is why we see for example, the migration of Iban, Orang Ulu and Bidayuh communities to cities has enriched the cultural diversity of urban Sarawak.
He said Sarawakians who come from rural areas should strive to develop themselves and eliminate any sense of fear and shame.
“Work harder, make friends with everyone, be receptive to good advice. If you find success in the cities, you’ll be of great help to your families in the villages.
According to the Head of State, the harmony we enjoy today is the result of tolerance and close ties among our people of various tribes, cultures and religions. The spirit of mutual trust and respect has been a solid foundation for the unity of the people of Sarawak ever since.
Thus, he urged all parties to maintain the existing unity among them, saying unity acts both as the cornerstone of stability and the solid foundation upon which the state’s socio-economic development is built.
“Sarawak has changed a lot and has now become the most progressive state. Our economic development is not only increasingly active and modern in this country but even in the whole region.
“We should be proud of the ability of our people to achieve this incredible level of development and advancement.
“This is all due to our ability to maintain unity and good relations among our people of the various ethnic groups, religious beliefs and backgrounds.
Taib further advised that such harmony among multi-racial communities throughout the state should be nurtured for future generations.
He also mentioned that the Gawai Dayak celebration should be considered as a meeting time and platform to exchange visits, socialise and understand one another’s customs.
“We welcome the fostering of ties and new companionship. Let’s make this Gawai Day a celebration that can give not only pleasure to the Iban, Bidayuh and Orang Ulu, but can also be enjoyed by all races in Sarawak.
“Indeed, the solidarity that we achieve today is the result of the tolerance and understanding that has been the Sarawakian trademark since the formation of Malaysia.
“I hope that the unity and harmony of the people of Sarawak will continue to stand firm in its own mould,” he added.
