The White Cat statue in Padungan is now wearing a printed songket-inspired red and green vest — a vibrant symbol of Gawai Dayak and Sarawak's cultural harmony.
[image: N7CZ25RmCjRDHts]
The special attire was unveiled during a lighting ceremony at the iconic statue on May 26, officiated by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian. He said the annual lighting tradition reflects Sarawak's inclusive spirit and the harmony among its people.
"I would also like to take this opportunity to wish everyone Selamat Hari Gawai, Gayu Guru Gerai Nyamai," Dr Sim said.
As people are travelling back for Gawai, Dr Sim reminded motorists to drive carefully. "Road conditions are improving, but please drive safely. If you drink, don't drive. If you drive, don't drink."
Kuching South City Council (MBKS) mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng explained that a printed songket-inspired material was chosen instead of Pua Kumbu textile out of respect for Dayak cultural sensitivities. "When dressing the statue, it is important for us to consult and respect the cultures of others," he said.
The mayor also drew a parallel between the open-door tradition of longhouse culture and Sarawak's unity: "If you have been to a longhouse, all the pintu are 'buka' (open). This openness is the heartbeat of our Sarawak unity."
Location: Padungan, Kuching
Details: White Cat statue in songket-inspired Gawai Dayak vest; lighting ceremony officiated by Deputy Premier Dr Sim Kui Hian and MBKS mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng
Source: DayakDaily
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