Information Communication and Culture deputy minister Joseph Salang Gandum ( below ) said there would be no national level Gawai Dayak celebrations (open house) this year.

NONE "But though we are not celebrating the Gawai Dayak national level open house this year, the government continues to support whatever programmes organised to usher in the celebrations, according to tradition and culture.

"1Malaysia Community programmes organised in conjunction with Gawai Dayak celebrations in Kampung Benuk, Padawan, situated outside Kuching, shows a close interaction between leaders and people," he said after joining deputy Tourism minister Dr James Dawos Mamit in the celebrations held in Kampung Benuk,

about 35km from Kuching, last night.

Salang said festivals like the Gawai Dayak day celebrations are a platform for Malaysians, no matter what race or ethnic, to usher in the celebrations as one big family.

Salang added that art and culture are among the main commodities that not only contribute to the development of the country but also forms the pillars to strengthen the identity and unity of Malaysia.

"The 1Malaysia concept of 'People first, Performance now' remains a unifying factor and ensures that no Malaysian is left behind," he said.

- Bernama