As Hari Gawai draws near, East Malaysia comes alive with music, laughter, and the familiar warmth of family gatherings. Celebrated every 1st and 2nd June, Hari Gawai and Pesta Kaamatan are deeply rooted harvest festivals that carry a strong sense of gratitude, togetherness, and hope for the year ahead.
For many Malaysians, the festivities are also a chance to experience the rich culture and traditions that make East Malaysia so unique. From longhouse visits to cultural showcases and festive food, here are five ways people can soak in the spirit of Gawai and Kaamatan this season.
Experience the Real Spirit of Gawai at a Traditional Longhouse
Longhouses have been a cultural staple for many indigenous communities in Sarawak, particularly among the Iban and Bidayuh people. During Gawai, you’ll hear traditional music playing in the background, taste festive delicacies, and listen to stories shared between generations.
Cultural Performances Happening Around Town
Across malls, community centres, and public venues, traditional Ngajat dances and live sape performances are often part of the celebrations. Beyond the entertainment, these performances help preserve cultural traditions while introducing younger generations to the richness of Bornean heritage in a modern way.
Indulge in Traditional Gawai Food and Tuak
Of course, no Hari Gawai celebration would be complete without food. Open houses usually serve Manok Pansoh, glutinous rice delicacies, and local kuih. Tuak, the traditional rice wine often associated with Gawai, also continues to be an important symbol of friendship, hospitality, and celebration.
Traditional Beauty Pageants
Another highlight is the celebration of traditional beauty pageants such as Kumang Gawai and Keling Gawai. These pageants go beyond physical appearance. There is also a strong emphasis on cultural identity, heritage, and traditional craftsmanship. Contestants take the stage in beautifully crafted traditional outfits, carrying themselves with confidence while proudly representing their culture and heritage.
Keep Your Traditional Attire Fresh and Festive-Ready with Dynamo and arFUM
As festive celebrations continue throughout the season, many Malaysians are also preparing their traditional attire for gatherings, performances, and open houses. With treasured garments often stored away for months, proper fabric care becomes essential to maintain the vibrancy, freshness, and quality of these meaningful outfits.
Dynamo and arFUM are bringing extra excitement to the celebration season through the Hari Gawai campaign themed “Kilauan Pesta, Haruman Gaya”. Positioned as the perfect festive laundry duo, Dynamo helps preserve the vibrancy of clothes while tackling unwanted odors. Meanwhile, arFUM delivers a long-lasting premium fragrance experience designed to keep clothes smelling fresh throughout long festive days and gatherings.
To make the celebrations even more rewarding, consumers can also participate in the Dynamo & arFUM Hari Gawai Spend & Win Contest, running from 25th May to 15th June 2026. Consumers who spend RM30 and above in a single receipt on participating products at selected outlets can submit their entry. Attractive prizes including Insta360 X5 cameras and RM50 Touch ‘n Go eWallet reloads are up for grabs.
As Malaysians come together to celebrate culture, family, and tradition this Hari Gawai, the festive season serves as a beautiful reminder that heritage continues to thrive when communities gather to honour and preserve it together.
