“When in Rome, do as the Romans do.” Live your life as a Sarawakian, you wouldn’t want to miss the chance of experiencing something unique. Especially when it comes to festive season. It can’t beat Rio, but they do have their own charm. Be it the culture, the customs, or even the food.
One of the best festival in Sarawak is known as the Gawai Dayak. Celebrated by many on every 1st June or perhaps one day before, to commemorate the success of the rice harvest. Travelers are bound to witness the native culture of indigenous tribe of Borneo.
The Dayaks include the Iban, Bidayuh, Kayan, Kenyan, Krabit and Murut tribes who once roamed Borneo, celebrated with festival with genuine joy and enthusiasm.
Figure 1:Gawai Dayak parade. Image via Flickr
Celebrating Gawai Dayak in Sarawak, Malaysia in the capital Kuching and around Sarawak, celebrations began the week before June 1.
Kuching held demonstrations along the waterfront a week before Gawai Dayak. Sarawak Cultural Village, a popular and convenient place for visitors to learn more about indigenous culture, has officially begun its celebrations.
On May 31, Sarawak began a Gawai Dayak celebration at the civic center, including dinner, dancing and even a beauty contest.
Visitors are invited to visit the Iban Longhouse on the outskirts of Sarawak on June 1.
Longhouse activities are different; Some allow visitors to photograph traditional blowguns or watch cockfights. No matter what the scene is like, visitors will always get a glass of rich yellow rice wine; Drink or hide somewhere – it’s not polite to refuse!
During the Gawai Dayak, the Iban and Dayak homes are open, giving visitors a glimpse of daily life. Visitors are invited to take photos in colorful costumes, take part in traditional dances, and taste delicious cakes and desserts.
Desire for more Sarawak vibe? Below are some of the recommended accommodations to experience the authentic vibe in Sarawakian Village.
- Saloma Villagestay
Address: No. 75, Q430 Jalan Kampung Sadir – Simuti – Sibakar, Jalan Puncak Borneo, 94200 Kuching, Sarawak
Famous for its diverse and rare flora and fauna, the Borneo rainforests are home to over 15,000 plants and animals, including Orang Utan. Just over an hour’s drive from Kuching discover the hidden paradise of Saloma’s villagestay, where nature and culture are still preserved. Stay with the locals in a Bidayuh village to discover authentic Borneo & live a true Jungle experience.
2.Annah Rais Bidayuh Longhouse
Address: 103, Jalan Borneo Height, Kampong Annah Rais, 93250, Kuching, Sarawak
Annah Rais Longhouse is a Bidayuh settlement about 100km south of Kuching, at the foothill of Borneo Highlands near the mountains marking the border to Kalimantan. Other than the authentic longhouse experience, it is also famous for the hot springs nearby.
3.Kampung Sting
Address: Kampung Sting, Padawan District, Kuching Division, Sarawak, Malaysia.
Bidayuh Village is now a 15-minute boat ride away surrounded by scenic mountainous backdrops across the majestic Bengoh Lake (1 hour from Kuching). Many waterfalls and streams flow into the Bengoh Lake which now serves as a water catchment for Kuching. Hike towards Kling Waterfall for a cold dip awaits you while a sumptuous picnic native lunch is being prepared.
Thereafter proceed to the picturesque Susung waterfalls. Your overnight stay at Kampung Sting high above the lake will yet be another highlight as you take in the beautiful scenery of the lake.
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