HIS MAJESTY Seri Paduka Baginda Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim and Her Majesty Seri Paduka Baginda Raja Permaisuri Agong Raja Zarith Sofiah have conveyed their heartfelt greetings to all Malaysians celebrating the Gawai Dayak and Kaamatan festivals.
In a royal message, Their Majesties underscored the significance of the celebrations as not only a time to mark the end of the harvest season with gratitude but also as a reminder to all Malaysians to remain thankful for the blessings and sustenance they receive, in accordance with their respective beliefs and customs.
“This celebration is not only a symbol of gratitude at the end of the harvest season but also serves as a reminder for all citizens to always be thankful for the sustenance and blessings granted, in line with their respective beliefs and practices,” the royal statement read.
Their Majesties also expressed deep appreciation for Malaysia’s cultural diversity, which is vividly reflected in such festive occasions, portraying to the world the richness of the nation’s heritage and the harmony of its multiracial society.
“Their Majesties also express appreciation for the cultural diversity of Malaysians, which is reflected in these celebrations, thereby showcasing the richness of traditional heritage and the harmony of the country’s plural society in the eyes of the world,” the statement read.
Fadillah Calls for Unity in Kaamatan Message
Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof has called on all Malaysians to continue safeguarding harmony in diversity and to strengthen bonds of unity during the Kaamatan Festival celebrations.
Extending his greetings to the Kadazan Dusun, Murut and Rungus communities, particularly in Sabah, Fadillah emphasised the importance of preserving solidarity in the spirit of the harvest festival, which is celebrated on 30 and 31 May.
In a message shared via his official Facebook page, he said, “Like other celebrations, the Kaamatan Festival is a manifestation of Malaysia’s ethnic diversity and cultural richness, where people of different races, religions, and backgrounds live together in peace and harmony.”
“With the theme ‘Kaamatan for All’, let us celebrate the festival with joy, strengthen the bonds of friendship, and be grateful for the blessings and bountiful harvest.
“May this year’s paddy harvest, and those in the years to come, continue to flourish and bring goodness, success and prosperity to all.
“Selamat Menyambut Pesta Kaamatan, Kotobian Tadau Tagazo Do Kaamatan,” said Fadillah, who is also Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation.
Also extending festive wishes via Facebook was Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, who expressed hope that the season would bring joy, love and abundant blessings.
“Selamat menyambut Pesta Kaamatan and Hari Gawai to all friends and family in Sabah and Sarawak.
“Both celebrations reflect the richness of culture, customs and traditions and serve as symbols of harmony in Malaysia’s diversity.
“Kotobian Tadau Tagazo Do Kaamatan and Gayu Guru Gerai Nyamai!” he said. - May 30, 2025
