Serian, June 2, 2024 – The long-standing tradition of the Gawai parade in Kampung Ta-ee has once again drawn over 1,000 locals and visitors, celebrating the unique and vibrant Dayak culture.
The procession began with a creatively constructed float made from bamboo, followed by the Bi-Bukar Bidayuh community dressed in traditional and warrior costumes. Visitors who joined the procession danced joyfully to the music while admiring the beauty of the village along the 2-kilometer route.
The organizing chairman, Mr. George Oscar, expressed his delight, stating, “We are elated to welcome thousands of local and international visitors who have come together to celebrate Gawai with our community. This event transcends a mere parade; it is a vibrant showcase of the arts, culture, traditional dances, and music of the Bukar Sadong group of the Bidayuhs.
Throughout the festival, the community offered visitors the most exquisite traditional cuisines and the 2024 Limited Edition Harvest Festival Pepsi Cans.’ Mr. Oscar added, “We aspire for all attendees to leave with cherished memories that they can share with their friends and family.”
Gratitude was also extended to Pepsi Malaysia, the main sponsor of the Kampung Ta-ee Gawai Parade 2024. Pepsi proudly sponsored the construction of a grand stage for Kampung Ta-ee’s performers and the creation of the float for the procession. The float, shaped like a rice field, symbolizes the long-standing tradition of honoring Borneo’s rich cultural heritage and is dedicated to fostering unity and artistic appreciation. “Pepsi has provided an invaluable platform for our local community to promote our culture to the world,” Mr. Oscar remarked.
Amy Gan, Vice President of Marketing at Etika, expressed, “We are delighted to be part of Kampung Ta-ee Gawai, as Pepsi’s journey in East Malaysia is driven by a sincere commitment to preserving and promoting the unique traditions and artistic heritage of the region.”
“We are honored to support and uplift the local creative community. This year, we produced a captivating music video and song titled ‘Pepsi Harvest Festival Anthem.’ Witnessing both visitors and the Kampung Ta-ee community dance to our music during the parade was truly heartwarming.”
To celebrate diversity and unity, Pepsi has unveiled the 2024 Limited Edition Harvest Festival Pepsi Cans, exclusively available in East Malaysia. These cans, crafted by talented East Malaysian artists Daphne Siaw and Charles Mawan, showcase intricate patterns and symbols indigenous to Sarawak and Sabah. Seamlessly blending diverse cultural motifs, beloved by all, they symbolize the spirit of unity and celebration.
Looking ahead, the Kampung Ta-ee community will proudly participate in the 2024 state-level Gawai Dayak Parade on June 15 in Kuching City. We invite everyone to mark their calendars for this event to witness the stunning float, sponsored Pepsi and crafted by the Kampung Ta-ee community. Visitors will also be able to collect the 2024 Limited Edition Harvest Festival Pepsi Cans during the state-level Gawai Dayak Parade.
