Written by Dr Regina Garai & Dr Leha Saliman
The Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities (FSSH), UNIMAS recently hosted a Gawai lunch for its staff in celebration of the Gawai Dayak festive season. The Gawai lunch is one of the signature events at FSSH, reflecting the faculty’s ongoing commitment to cultural celebration and community building.
The gathering provided an opportunity for staff to come together beyond their daily routines, fostering camaraderie, appreciation, and a stronger sense of belonging within the faculty, in the spirit of Segulai Sejalai. Held in a warm and relaxed atmosphere, the lunch featured a variety of traditional and local dishes, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Sarawak and the spirit of unity embodied by Gawai.
Staff members noted that such gatherings play an important role in strengthening workplace relationships and promoting a more connected faculty community. Dr Athirah Azhar shared that she has enjoyed every Gawai celebration since joining UNIMAS, describing it as one of the events she always looks forward to each year. She expressed her appreciation for seeing colleagues dressed in traditional Gawai attire, enjoying ngajat performances by fellow staff, and joining in the lively poco-poco dance together. Despite busy schedules, she noted that the celebration brings everyone closer and strengthens the sense of unity within the faculty.
Dr Leha Saliman, a member of the organising committee, stated that she is proud to have been part of the FSSH Gawai Lunch 2026. As a Dayak, she expressed that it is an honour to share and celebrate her cultural heritage with colleagues from diverse backgrounds within FSSH. Beyond the celebration, she noted that Gawai serves as a reminder of the importance of friendship, mutual respect, and the spirit of unity that continues to strengthen Sarawak’s multicultural community.
In addition to the festive celebration, the occasion also included a heartfelt farewell tribute by the FSSH Gawai Committee to Professor Datu Dr Neilson Ilan Mersat, who has served the faculty for almost 30 years. His long-standing leadership and dedication were acknowledged with deep appreciation by colleagues, who highlighted his significant contributions to the growth and development of FSSH over the decades. He was also recognised for his instrumental role and for being a steadfast supporter of the Gawai organising committee over the years, helping to strengthen the spirit of togetherness and cultural celebration within the faculty.
Reflections from staff highlighted the lasting impact of his service, particularly in shaping the faculty’s academic direction and strengthening its institutional culture. Professor Datu Dr Neilson Ilan also expressed his gratitude for the support and collegiality he experienced throughout his tenure, describing his time with the faculty as both meaningful and a significant part of his life.
Professor Datu Dr Neilson Ilan is set to join the Sarawak Government as Ketua Majlis Adat Istiadat Sarawak (MAIS), and it is hoped that his contributions and achievements will continue to shine beyond UNIMAS in this new role.
The celebration further highlighted the importance of embracing cultural diversity while strengthening bonds among staff. Through such occasions, FSSH continues to nurture an inclusive and supportive environment where traditions are celebrated and meaningful relationships are built.
As the faculty remains committed to excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement, gatherings like the Gawai lunch reinforce the values of togetherness, collaboration, and appreciation that underpin the FSSH community. Dr Tracy Peter Samat said that organising the Gawai lunch at the faculty provided a much-needed breath of fresh air. It offered staff a valuable opportunity to recharge, celebrate Sarawak’s rich cultural heritage, and return to work with renewed energy. She expressed her hope that this lively Gawai tradition will continue to be practised for many years to come.
The Faculty extends its warmest Gawai greetings to all staff, wishing everyone Gayu Guru, Gerai Nyamai – good health, long life, and prosperity. The spirit of Gawai lives on at FSSK.
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