Community-led Gawai celebration supported by Coca-Cola Malaysia
ANNAH RAIS, 2 JUNE 2026 – Gawai in Kampung Annah Rais came alive in full colour this year as the village opened its longhouse and its doors to visitors from across Malaysia and beyond, inviting them to experience a celebration shaped not just by festivities, but by the people and collective effort behind it.
Over two days on 1 and 2 June 2026, the community welcomed more than 9,000 visitors into the heart of the longhouse, where Gawai unfolded as it has for generations — through shared preparation, open houses, cultural expression and moments of togetherness. Supported by Coca-Cola Malaysia, the community-led celebration reflected the spirit of Gawai as something made together, rather than simply observed. The celebration was also attended by YB Datuk Dr. Jerip Susil, Deputy Minister of Transportation I, who joined the community in marking the Gawai festivities at Kampung Annah Rais.
A Celebration Built by the Community
Rooted in Bidayuh traditions, the Ngabang open house experience brought the longhouse to life as villagers and visitors gathered to share meals, stories and laughter. Throughout the village, cultural performances, traditional music and dance created a vibrant rhythm that flowed from day into night, drawing people together across generations in shared enjoyment.
Adding to the energy of the celebration, the Dayung Sangun Beauty Pageant lit up the evening with colour, confidence and cultural pride, as four participants took to the stage in a lively showcase of heritage and personality. The pageant drew an enthusiastic crowd, culminating in the crowning of Sonia Vivian Rua Anak Gabriel from Bidayuh-Biannah, greeted by resounding applause from the community and visitors alike.
The festivities also featured a community bazaar offering local crafts, traditional foods, fresh produce and handmade souvenirs, creating opportunities for local artisans and families to share their livelihoods and stories with guests.
Landmark Moments that United Tradition and Modern Expression
As part of the celebration, a temporary installation shaped like a Coca‑Cola bottle was featured, incorporating paddy contributed by the community as a tribute to the efforts of farmers during the harvest season. Blending tradition and creativity, the installation also served as an entry point to the augmented reality (AR) experience, where visitors explored immersive digital storytelling that brought Bidayuh culture, heritage, and narratives to life in a contemporary way.
Another standout moment was the historic Coca-Cola mural convoy that made its way into Kampung Annah Rais on 1 June. Achieved through collaboration with Grab Malaysia and the community, the convoy earned recognition from The Malaysia Book of Records for Most E-Hailing Cars in a Gawai Festival Convoy, marking a milestone moment that added to the collective pride of the celebration.
As evening fell, the village witnessed a spectacular laser light show that illuminated the night sky, creating a shared moment of wonder and excitement after a full day of festivities. Across the two days, visitors of all ages took part in interactive experiences designed to encourage exploration, play and shared discovery across the village, adding light-hearted moments to the broader celebration.
Community Voices at the Heart of Gawai
Ketua Kaum Annah Rais, Tn Joda Mamung, said:
“Gawai has always been a time for togetherness, and we feel honoured to open our doors to visitors and share the warmth of our traditions. For the first time, we are also happy to welcome Coca-Cola as part of our celebration this year. Their support added to the experience, and we are glad to have shared this meaningful occasion together. We are happy our guests left with beautiful memories from our village. This programme also creates economic opportunities for the villagers, while showcasing our culture and hospitality to visitors.”
True to the spirit of Gawai, Coca-Cola’s support focused on the people behind the celebration — from preparation through to the festivities themselves — helping create spaces where connections could form naturally during moments of work, celebration and rest.
Khairul Anwar, Public Affairs, Communications and Sustainability Director for Coca-Cola Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei, said:
“What we witnessed in Kampung Annah Rais is a powerful reminder that culture brings people together in the most genuine way. We are honoured to support the community behind Gawai and to celebrate alongside them, being part of moments that connect people across backgrounds, generations and traditions.”
A Celebration that Lingers Beyond the Festivities
As the celebrations ended, the sounds of music, laughter and conversation lingered across Kampung Annah Rais, leaving behind a lasting sense of connection and shared joy. Gawai once again reflected its true essence — a celebration built through collective effort, open doors and meaningful participation.
Selamat Menyambut Hari Gawai. Gayu Guru Gerai Nyamai.
