Gawai Dayak is more than just a public holiday in Kuching; it is the heartbeat of Sarawak’s indigenous identity.
Celebrated annually on June 1st and 2nd, Gawai marks the end of the paddy harvesting season and the beginning of a new farming cycle.
While the festival is rooted in the rural longhouses of the interior, Kuching transforms into a vibrant hub where tradition meets urban energy.
It is a time of thanksgiving (Gawaimeans “festival” and Dayakrefers to the collective indigenous groups like the Iban, Bidayuh, and Orang Ulu) for a bountiful harvest and a collective prayer for future prosperity.
During Gawai, the best Dayak dishes are usually served by the locals.
1st and 2nd June are declared public holidays to celebrate Gawai Dayak.
Local Culture: The Spirit of Gayau Guru, Gerai Nyamai
In Kuching, the essence of Gawai is defined by hospitality and community. Even in the city’s modern suburbs, the “Longhouse Spirit” prevails.
- Ngabang (Open House): This is the cornerstone of the celebration. Homes are opened to friends, family, and even strangers. You’ll find tables laden with traditional delicacies like panyaram (deep-fried rice flour cakes) and lemang (glutinous rice cooked in bamboo).
- Tuak (Rice Wine): No Gawai is complete without Tuak. This homemade rice wine is offered to guests as a sign of welcome. Refusing a glass is difficult, as it’s served with the infectious cheer of “Oooha!”—a signature Dayak celebratory cry.
- Traditional Attire: You’ll see locals proudly donning the Ngepan Iban or Bidayuh traditional costumes, featuring intricate beadwork, silver ornaments, and feathered headgear (lelanjang).
Yearly Gawai Dayak Major Events
While private celebrations happen behind closed doors, Kuching hosts several large-scale public events that showcase the grandeur of Dayak culture.
- The Gawai Carnival (Pesta Gawai Dayak) – Usually held in the weeks leading up to June 1st, this carnival features traditional sports, blowpipe competitions, and food stalls. It’s the best place to find authentic “Dayak soul food” like Ayam Pansuh (chicken cooked in bamboo).
- Gawai Parade (Niti Daun) – A spectacular sight in the heart of Kuching city, the Niti Daun is a street parade where thousands of participants from various Dayak tribes march in full traditional regalia. The air is filled with the rhythmic clanging of gongs and the graceful movements of Ngajat dancers.
- Kumang and Keling Gawai – Beauty and brains take center stage in these prestigious pageants. Kumang Gawai (for women) and Keling Gawai (for men) are not just about looks; contestants are judged on their knowledge of heritage, their ability to speak their native tongue, and the authenticity of their traditional attire.
- Gawai Eve at Sarawak Cultural Village – Located just outside the city at the base of Mount Santubong, the Sarawak Cultural Village hosts a “Gawai Countdown.” It’s a concentrated experience featuring ritual ceremonies, bonfire dancing, and the symbolic “Chief’s Address” at midnight to usher in the new year.
Dress up for Gawai Dayak
Gawai is one of those festivals where Dayak’s wear their costumes in pride. If you want to fit in, you can also opt to buy Gawai or Dayak inspired costumes for the celebrations.
- BUY Traditional Iban Costume
- BUY Traditional Bidayuh Costume
- BUY Dayak inspired clothing
- BUY Gawai accesories
Check out events and happenings in Kuching HERE.
