By NOOR SYAHHIRA HADY & SARAH HAFIZAH CHANDRA
KUCHING: The Bidayuh community here is thrilled to be a part of the Brarak and Bipajak Gawai Bisegu 2023 celebration.
The event, held at Kampung Bunuk yesterday (June 3), marked the first-ever organised gathering by the Bidayuh community.
According to chairman of Persatuan Segu Bunuk Penrissen, Gabriel Michael Tommy, more than 500 villagers from the area participated in this event.
In addition to the opening procession, it featured performances by local Bidayuh artists, lucky draws, and various other activities.
New Sarawak Tribune had the opportunity to speak with participants who shared their joy in being part of this soon-to-be annual celebration.
CHRISTEL AQUILA GLIEASE, 13,
Student
I am incredibly excited as this is my first time participating in such an event. I brought my family along to join me in the procession, and we are all looking forward to it. However, since I will also be performing, I must admit I feel a little nervous.
BETHSHEBA MELINIE, 13,
Student
I am happy to have the opportunity to take part in the inaugural procession held here. I have also invited my friends to join me, and we are all excited to be a part of it. I sincerely hope that it will continue to be organised in future.
JANCY JOKIN ABDULLAH, 51,
Businesswoman
As someone who has never had the opportunity to participate like this before, I am filled with excitement to be here. I have even brought my brother all the way from the United Kingdom (UK) to join me in experiencing this joyful occasion. I hope that it becomes an annual tradition. It has the potential to serve as a valuable platform for the youth to deepen their understanding of the rich Bidayuh culture.
SIMON AHAI, 58,
Technician
I am filled with a sense of pride to be a part of this programme. Being the first-ever edition, witnessing the enthusiastic participation of the young generation today adds an even greater significance and impact to the event. My sincere hope is that through initiatives like this, the Bidayuh culture will gain recognition not only within the community but also among other ethnicities in Sarawak.
