Assemblyman leads cross-border visit to celebrate ‘Gawai Nyobeng’

BAU: Tasik Biru assemblyman Datuk Henry Harry Jinep recently led a group from Bau to cross the border to visit the Indonesian village of Sebujit for the Gawai Nyobeng ceremony.

Henry was joined by over 20 dirt biking enthusiasts as they rode their motorbikes on a three-hour ride from Serikin, Bau on tarsealed road to the Indonesian town of Jagoi Babang before proceeding on dirt road to Sebujit.

The goodwill trip was at the invitation of the organisers of the Gawai Nyobeng, and also for Henry to explore bilateral cooperation to jointly promote Gawai celebrations in both Bau district and neighbouring Indonesian districts.

The villagers in Sebujit identify themselves as Dayak Bidayuh, and they proudly mentioned it on their banners for this celebration.

Henry and his delegation were welcomed at Sebujit by ceremonial chief Pak Amin and his son Gunawan, who brought along a big welcoming group.

Henry was invited to give a speech and witnessed some of the traditional rituals performed for this unique ceremony.

Gawai Nyobeng is the biggest Gawai celebration for the people of Bengkayang regency, West Kalimantan, and it is usually held on June 15 to 17 every year to express gratitude to God after the harvest season.

There is also a homestay at Sebujit to provide accommodation for visitors from far coming for the celebrations.

Henry, in his brief remarks describing the trip, said it was a good cultural exchange to foster cordial relationships between communities in Bau and neighbouring Indonesian districts.

“It is also a good way to get to know fellow Bidayuhs across the border and have a taste of their culture,” he said.