KUCHING, May 31 -- Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar has called on the Dayak community to preserve their rich cultural traditions while continuing to prioritise education as a key driver of development, as they return to their villages to celebrate Gawai Dayak.

He said Gawai is not merely a harvest festival, but a powerful symbol of unity, gratitude and cultural pride.

"Each year on June 1, the Dayak community gathers to honour the fruits of their labour, strengthen family ties, and pass down traditions that reflect the values of togetherness, mutual respect and harmony," he said in his Gawai Dayak message today.

Recalling the historical significance of Gawai, which was officially recognised as a state celebratio...