Gawai Kitai 2026 Showcases Dayak Cultural Heritage In KL

KUALA LUMPUR, June 20 (Bernama) -- The public has the opportunity to gain a deeper appreciation of the unique culture of Sarawak's Dayak community through the two-day Gawai Kitai 2026 programme, which is being held until tomorrow at The Square, Publika, Solaris Dutamas here.

Organised by MOD Solution with the support of the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry (MOTAC), the programme features traditional Sarawak ethnic performances such as the Ngajat dance, bamboo dance and sape music performances, as well as cultural demonstrations and workshops, heritage exhibitions, local product sales and performances by Sarawakian artistes.

Gawai Kitai 2026 organiser Michael Oridecth Dures said the event, now in its second year, serves as a platform to promote the culture, arts and heritage of Sarawak's communities to both Malaysians and foreign visitors.

“The response received last year was highly encouraging and has motivated us to continue our efforts to promote the culture, arts and heritage of the people of Sarawak,” he said in his speech at the programme's opening ceremony today, which was officiated by MOTAC secretary-general Shaharuddin Abu Sohot.

Speaking to reporters afterwards, Shaharuddin said that although the programme is being held in the capital city and cannot fully replicate the atmosphere of a traditional Gawai celebration in a Sarawak longhouse, it has nevertheless succeeded in showcasing various elements of Sarawakian culture.

“We warmly welcome the organisation of this programme because it highlights the uniqueness of Malaysia's cultural heritage to both domestic and international visitors,” he said.

-- BERNAMA