June 02

On June 2, Bhutan commemorates the coronation of King Jigme Singye Wangchuck, who ascended the throne in 1974 and guided the nation through modernization while preserving its cultural heritage. The day also serves as Social Forestry Day, highlighting community-driven forest conservation programs that ensure sustainable management of Bhutan’s rich biodiversity. Festivities include formal ceremonies at the royal palace, tree-planting events in rural villages, and educational workshops on sustainable land use. Government ministries and local communities collaborate on outreach projects that demonstrate the benefits of participatory forestry, from soil conservation to wildlife protection. Cultural performances, traditional archery contests, and public lectures underscore the country’s commitment to Gross National Happiness principles. The dual celebration reinforces the bond between the monarchy, the environment, and the Bhutanese people, fostering national unity and ecological awareness. Over the years, these observances have become a poignant reminder of Bhutan’s unique path toward sustainable development and cultural preservation.

Gawai Dayak is a two-day festival that begins on June 1 and culminates on June 2, celebrated by the Dayak people in Sarawak to give thanks for a bountiful harvest. The festivities feature traditional music, dances such as the ngajat, and rituals that involve ceremonial offerings of rice and local brew. Villagers dress in intricately woven costumes adorned with beads and feathers, reflecting centuries of rich craftsmanship. Family gatherings play a central role, with homes opened to neighbors who share meals of traditional dishes like kasam and tuak rice wine. Longhouse communities host competitions in bamboo dance and blowpipe accuracy, fostering friendly rivalry and cultural pride. The state government often sponsors cultural performances and exhibitions to promote Dayak heritage to a wider audience. Gawai Dayak underscores the importance of agriculture, community cooperation, and environmental stewardship in sustaining Sarawak’s diverse ecosystems and social fabric.