Niti Daun 2026: A celebration of cultural heritage

Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr.)  Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg sounds the gong, formally kicking off the Niti Daun 2026 parade at Tun Jugah Shopping Complex.

KUCHING, 20 June 2026: The annual Niti Daun parade took place earlier this afternoon, bringing together 114 contingents from various associations and clubs across Sarawak for a celebration of cultural heritage in the heart of Kuching city.

As the main highlight of the Sarawak State-Level Gawai Dayak Celebration, the Niti Daun Parade saw over 5,000 participants walking the 1.2KM route from the Tun Jugah Shopping Complex to the Kuching Waterfront Square Tower, and thousands more lining the streets for a glimpse of the intricate attire, creatively decorated floats and live music from local artists.

The term ‘Niti Daun’ was once used to describe an old tradition of longhouse parades during Gawai celebrations but has evolved to large-scale cultural processions joined by Dayak communities across the region. Decked in their traditional garb, accessories and ethnic handicrafts, participants of the Niti Daun proudly showcase Sarawak’s rich indigenous heritage, marking the peak of Gawai celebrations in the state.

In total, 99 walking groups and 15 cultural floats took part in this year’s parade, which was also witnessed by the Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr.)  Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg and his daughter, Dayang Norjihan, Deputy Premiers, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Datuk Amar Prof. Dr. Sim Kui Hian and other distinguished guests.

A total of 114 contingents were part of Niti Daun 2026.

Under the theme ‘Segulai Sejalai’, the parade is a celebration of pride, showcasing Sarawak’s many ethnic groups and unique cultural identity in a vibrant event for all to witness and appreciate. Some associations that took part in Niti Daun 2026 include the Tun Jugah Foundation, the Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association, the Dayak Cultural Foundation, Kumpulan Kebudayaan Kampung Gumbang Bau, the Semban Ring Ladies, the Sarawak Kayan Women Association, the Dayak Bidayuh National Association Samarahan Branch, Rumah Minggat in Nanga Bawai and the Lun Bawang Association Sarawak.

A vibrant display of cultural heritage and unity.