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Wishesland Miri marks closing of Gawai Dayak festival with ‘Ngiling Tikai' ceremony
Lee (third left), flanked by Ho (second left) and Chi (second right) prepares to strike the gong to officiate the ceremony.
MIRI (June 22): Wishesland Miri marked the closing of the Gawai Dayak festival with a lively 'Ngiling Tikai' ceremony earlier today.
The centre, which serves as the local arm of the Sarawak Cerebral Palsy Association, welcomed guests, families and supporters to its premises here for the occasion.
This was the fifth year the centre celebrated Gawai, and the celebration was more than just a festive gathering—it served as a powerful reminder of the centre's unwavering mission to provide care and rehabilitation for children with cerebral palsy.
Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin officiated the event and also joined in the traditional 'Ngajat' dance around the 'ranyai' tree.
Wishesland Miri president Eunice Ho expressed gratitude for the continued support from the community, but also highlighted the centre's need for ongoing financial assistance.
'We continue to appeal to the public and to kind individuals for ongoing support, especially monetary aid, so we can sustain and improve our services,' she said, while also thanking Lee for his consistent generosity over the years.
(From front row, second left) Chi, Lee and Ho take a group photo with those present at the event.
Meanwhile, Lee commended the centre for its continued dedication in improving the lives of children with special needs.
'It is good to see Wishesland Miri continue organising events like this and bringing people together, especially in celebrating Gawai. It shows their commitment to their mission—to be a one-stop solution for children with this condition,' he said, adding that making a difference doesn't always require grand gestures.
He also stressed the importance of preserving Sarawak's unique way of life, which is built on respect, understanding, and working together.
Lee joins in the 'Ngajat' dance in front of the 'ranyai' tree during the event.
'You can see that our children here are all from different communities and we are here to help them. As Sarawakians, we all belong in the same family,' he said.
Also in attendance was Wishesland Miri advisor and Wishesland Kuching president Chi Poh Yung. community Gawai Dayak Lee Kim Shin Ngiling Tikai Wishesland Miri
