Gawai Dayak, also known as Dayak Day or Dayak Festival, is observed in the Malaysian state of Sarawak and parts of Indonesia every May 31 and June 1. This annual festival celebrates the culture of the Dayak people, the largest indigenous group on the island of Borneo, which encompasses over 200 ethnic subgroups. The festival originated in the late 1950s, conceived by radio producers Owen Liang and Tan Kingsley, and was first officially celebrated on June 1, 1965. Customs during Gawai Dayak include cleaning and decorating longhouses, preparing traditional foods like rice cakes and rice wine, and conducting a series of rituals to cast away the spirit of greed. The festivities begin on the evening of May 31 with a ceremonial collection of unwanted items from families, followed by a festive dinner and a spirit-welcoming procession. The celebration continues into June 1, when longhouses open to guests, showcasing traditional music, dance, and sports, reinforcing community bonds among the Dayak people.