The Study of Gawai Antu Disappearance and Its Sustainability Among Youths In Sarawak

Abstract

Gawai Antu is a festival celebrated by the Iban in Sarawak to commemorate the dead soul who has passed away since the last Gawai Antu feast. However, contrary to the main harvest festival, Gawai Dayak, this celebration is less likely to be celebrated among the Ibans due to various reasons. This research aims to investigate the disappearance of Gawai Antu and determine its sustainability. This research could significantly contribute to the Iban community and to the state government of Sarawak where it could help in building greater understanding on the factors affecting the disappearance of Gawai Antu and suggestions on how to revive and sustain the festival. The study is focused on youths in Sarawak with the sample of the study was 88 youths in Kuching. This research is based on data obtained from a survey questionnaire and was analysed by using descriptive analysis. The data were gathered using Stratified Random Sampling and Convenience Sampling Technique. The research suggested that the extinction of Gawai Antu celebration is linked to modernization, religious barrier with cost and time constraints. The results also suggested that the three dimensions of sustainability of Gawai Antu are important to curb the disappearance of this festival namely, collaboration via partnerships, preservation and protection of the festival, and keeping the quality and authenticity of the festival. As this celebration is one of its kind, it would be recommended that production of more credible sources, creating practical exhibitions, and cooperation between relevant agencies would help in keeping the festival alive.