MIRI: The Pre-Launch Ceremony of Gawai Dayak Bazaar 11.0, held at Eastwood Valley Golf and Country Club on Saturday, was attended by more than 600 guests, including community leaders and local elected representatives.
The event, organised by the Gagasan Anak Dayak Sarawak Association (GADS), carried the theme "Bedagang, Berami, Begawai," aiming to raise funds for the Gawai Dayak Bazaar, which will take place from 1 to 24 May 2025 in Permyjaya, Miri.
Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing, and Local Government, Datuk Dr Penguang Manggil, during his officiating speech, announced a contribution of RM20,000 to GADS.
He praised the association for continuously organising the programme for the past 11 years.
“The Gawai Dayak Bazaar is not just a business platform but also a unifying venue that strengthens relationships among Sarawak’s diverse communities,” he said.
He also encouraged the Dayak community to continue playing a role in empowering the economy and supporting the state's progress toward the digital era.
Meanwhile, GADS Chairman, David Upe, in his welcoming remarks, stated that the event provides an opportunity for the Dayak community to venture into small and medium-scale entrepreneurship.
“We are grateful to all the elected representatives and contributors who have supported the success of this programme,” he said.
In addition to the announcement of contributions, the event was enlivened with cultural performances and fundraising activities, including a karaoke contest "Suara Emas & Poco-Poco," which successfully raised RM3,000 with participation from Datuk Dr Penguang Manggil and Miri District Police Chief, Alexson Naga Chabu.
Several other elected representatives also expressed their commitment to contributing to GADS, although the amounts were not officially announced.
The event was attended by local leaders, including Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department, Datuk Gerawat Gala, Miri Mayor, Adam Yii Siew Sang as well as other community leaders and government agencies. -UKASnews
