Tutong - The Hari Gawai celebration for the year 2007, organised by the Iban Brunei Association, was held at the Rumah Budaya Puak Iban, Sungai Basong Recreational Park, in Tutong. Hari Gawai is usually celebrated every year on June 1.
Present as the guest of honour was the Acting District Officer of Tutong, Awg Haji Jamain bin Momin, and his spouse.
The ceremony began with an opening speech by the chairman, Awg Chugot anak Kalai. In his speech, he said that the purpose of the celebration was to foster ties between the committee members of the Iban Brunei Association and to exemplify traditional Iban culture for the community, especially to the younger generations.
This was followed by a speech from the guest of honour.
The ceremony also included the presentation of the Award for Successful Senior Citizen to one of the members of the Iban Brunei Association, Awg Kelai anak Amping, 82. To enliven the ceremony, cultural performances and a traditional Iban costume competition were also held.
Also present at the ceremony were the President of the Iban Brunei Association, Awg Salanjat anak Jugi, the Assistant District Officer of Tutong, government staff members and village leaders. The ceremony ended with a traditional food-and-handcrafts exhibition, and a Sports Fun event was held for families from the Iban Association and members of the public.
Source: www.brunei-online.com (21 Juni 2007)
