By Wilfred Pilo
MIRI, Nov 3: Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg has announced more than RM35 million for the Orang Ulu community to venture into commerce and industry as well as to boost the community’s social and educational development.
Describing Sarawak as “kuih Lapis” which the Orang Ulu community is part of, he said the fund was to allow the community to play its role along side other communities.
“I have approved a building (Orang Ulu Cultural Centre) costing RM25 million. It is being constructed, I have given RM10 million and the rest RM15 million will come in.”
“Orang Ulu also participate in e-commerce industry so I approved RM10 million seed capital for Orang Ulu commerce and industry,” said Abang Johari when officiating the Sarawak Kayan Community and Association Anniversary Dinner held here Saturday evening.
At the same time, he also announced RM100,000 for education purpose of the association.
He said as the Orang Ulu community has been known for being well-versed in economic, he called on them to use the resources to play its role and stay united especially when the government is focussing on developing the interiors.
Meanwhile, Abang Johari said education is the answer to many challenges faced today where he told of a successful case of a Penan civil servant.
During that time, Abang Johari was tasked to take care of the Penan community and he met a Penan to whom he said the Penan Community though small, can play a major role through education.
“Last year, if I am not mistaken, I was at Long Lama and met a senior government officer who asked if I still remembered him.
“He told me he was the first Penan who went to school and managed to further his studies, and today he served as a senior officer in the civil service.
“He told me I was the one who encouraged the Penans to further their studies. Had he not gone to school, I don’t think he will be a senior member of the government.
“This demonstrated the fact that education can change a person. Equipped with the latest knowledge and technology, you will survive anywhere you go,” said Abang Johari. — DayakDaily
