THE Gawai and Kaamatan festivities are more than just harvest celebrations, it is a symbol of gratitude, harmony, and the community spirit of the Kadazan-Dusun, Murut, and Dayak peoples, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said.
Chow said these two communities, originating from Sabah and Sarawak, have always been a vibrant group given their rich customs and traditions.
“It is a heritage that proves the uniqueness and unity of Malaysia’s diverse people, while also reflecting the noble values that are closely aligned with the spirit of Malaysia Madani, namely the spirit of unity, mutual respect, and the celebration of diversity.
“This two-day celebration is an important affair for our Sabahan and Sarawakian friends, who have left their homes to be here with us, serving as a platform to support and make them feel at home despite being far away from their families.
“In Penang, we have always given priority to cultures and traditions of different communities, reflecting our commitment to multiculturalism that we have been practicing all these years.
“I deeply appreciate the efforts of the Bornean community here who continue to strive to preserve and educate others about Borneo’s cultural heritage in this state.
“We must all be aware that in an increasingly modern world, sustaining traditions and culture is not just a challenge, but also a responsibility that must be shouldered together,” Chow said in his speech after officiating the Gawai and Kaamatan celebrations at Sunshine Sentral in Air Itam today.
The celebration, which started yesterday, will end tonight at 10pm.
Various cultural and traditional activities were held to entertain the crowd, including traditional Borneo performances.
Also present earlier was the Gawai and Kaamatan celebrations project director Veronica Mujin.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Ahmad Adil Muhammad
Video by Darwina Mohd Daud