Tutong - The Mukim-level Gawai celebration was held yesterday at the open space of the Tasek Merimbun Heritage Park in the Tutong District. Present as the guest of honour was Awg Jamain bin Hj Momin, the Tutong District Officer and spouse.
Also present at the event were Selanjat Anak Jugi, the president of the Brunei-Iban Association, Penghulus, village heads and residents of the area.
The event began with an opening speech by the chairman of the event and the president of the Brunei-Iban association.
The event featured handicraft booths, exhibition of the villagers` activities, games as well as stalls set up by SMEs. There was also a showcase of cultural performances by the Iban community.
The major attraction of the day was the Ranyai tree that was set up at the centre of the stage. The fruits are wrapped in colourful packages which were for visitors to take home as souvenirs, in accordance to the Iban culture.
Yesterday`s event was organised by the Brunei-Iban Association in collaboration with the Consultative Councils of Kg Merimbun and Mukim Rambai. The event was aimed at exposing the community on the Gawai festival and to showcase and preserve cultural heritage and crafts of the past.
It was also held to foster relationship among the public through the Gawai celebration and to have a common ground for all to share and enjoy the festival.
Source: www.brunei-online.com - Jon Tampoi (3 Juni 2008)
