KUCHING (July 17): The Gawai Carnival Redeems returns for its 16th edition this year from July 26 to 28 at the Bidayuh Cultural Village near the Redeems Centre in Apar, Bau.

Association of Research and Development Movement of Singai Sarawak (Redeems) president Datuk Peter Nansian said the highlight of this iconic event, organised by Redeems, will be the gala dinner on the second day, which will be graced by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

“We are very thankful to our Premier for his continuous support. He had visited Redeems Centre twice last year and will join us again this year for the Gawai Carnival.

“His presence is highly anticipated, especially by our international guests who are eager to hear his vision for Sarawak.

“We hope this year’s Gawai Carnival will be one of the biggest, with 10,000 visitors expected to attend,” he told a press conference at the Borneo Tribal Village office in Batu Kawah here today.

Nansian said the event will showcase various activities, performances and exhibitions celebrating the cultural heritage and traditions of Sarawak’s indigenous communities, particularly the Dayak community, during the Gawai Dayak festival.

“The primary objective of the Gawai Carnival is to promote and preserve the cultural traditions, rituals, music, dance, crafts and cuisines associated with the Gawai Dayak festival.

“Additionally, the event aims to foster cultural exchange, appreciation and understanding among diverse communities,” he said.

The carnival will feature stalls serving traditional cuisines and displaying handicrafts, as well as the Bidayuh community from Bau hosting open houses to showcase their rich cultural heritage.

Nansian extended an invitation to the public, emphasising that the event is open to everyone.

“Inclusivity, vibrancy and sustainability are the core themes of the Gawai Carnival Redeems.

“Everyone can come and join us; it is not just for the locals but for everybody,” he said.