Dayak heritage must stay alive as modernisation accelerates, says National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang in a Gawai Dayak message
SIBU: The Dayak community in Sarawak has been reminded to continue preserving the customs, culture and heritage handed down through generations, ensuring they remain alive and are not lost amid rapid modernisation and technological advancement.
National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang said the Dayak community must keep pace with changing times without losing sight of its cultural roots to ensure continued progress.
“Inherited traditions are not just historical relics, but a heritage that shapes the identity of a nation.
“The younger generation should continue to be exposed to language, customs, arts and cultural values to ensure the heritage passed down by their ancestors remains alive and continues to flourish,” he said in a Facebook post today.
According to him, technological, educational and economic progress should be harnessed to document, promote and safeguard cultural heritage for future generations.
Aaron, who is also the Kanowit MP, said the Gawai Dayak celebration is a meaningful occasion, symbolising gratitude for the harvest, the blessings bestowed upon the people, and the peace and prosperity enjoyed by all.
“As an Iban descendant who grew up in a longhouse, the Gawai celebration always brings back fond memories. I still remember the gotong-royong spirit in preparing food, the laughter of relatives returning to the longhouse, and the strong family spirit that unites the entire community.
“The values of respect for elders, the spirit of sharing the practice of helping one another, which I have learnt since childhood, continue to be my guiding principles in life to this day,” he said.
He said the unique cultures, languages and customs of the various ethnic groups in the country are invaluable treasures, with this diversity making Malaysia a nation rich in cultural heritage and beauty.
Aaron said every festival celebrated, including Gawai Dayak, has created opportunities for people to get to know, understand and respect one another, noting that these factors are the foundation for Malaysia’s continued progress as a united, stable and respected nation.
