Manyin takes part in a traditional Bidayuh ceremony featured during the event at Awah Gawai Kampung Pichin.
 
 

SERIAN: The Bidayuh community here have been urged not to forget their origin and identity in their continued pursuit of progress.

Education, Science and Technological Research Minister Dato Sri Michael Manyin Jawong, who said this, pointed out the origin and identity of the Bidayuh included their culture, customs and traditions.

As such, he was supportive of efforts to showcase and promote traditional dances and customs at Gawai-related events such as the Gawai Miring Sawa 2018 at Awah Gawai Kampung Pichin which he officiated at last Friday evening.

“These are what identify and differentiate us from others. That is why we should showcase our culture & traditions at occasions like this so that the younger generation can see it or else it will be lost forever,” he said.

Around 2,000 people thronged the Awah Gawai Kampung Pichin for the event where traditional dances from various villages were showcased. It was jointly organised by Serian Community Leaders Association and Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) Serian branch.

Manyin, also Tebedu assemblyman, thanked the organisers for the event and he hoped it could be held annually.

He also emphasised the importance of education in the pursuit of success and progress of the community.
He added that parents play a very important role in their children’s education, urging parents to monitor and guide their children while giving them the necessary support and encouragement.

Among those present at the event included Bukit Semuja assemblyman John Ilus, political secretary to the chief minister John David Nyauh, Serian Resident Johnathan Lugoh, Serian District officer Lim Hock Meng, Tebedu District officer Raymond Achen, Serian District Council secretary Constantine Noeb and Serian community leaders led by Temenggong Henry Bujang Sadok and Temenggong Gee Ah Chok.