By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Aug 24: The Bidayuh community must embrace modernisation and progress without allowing its cultural identity, traditions and heritage to be left behind, says Tarat assemblyman Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn.
Sagah, who is also Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development and advisor to the Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA), said preparing the younger generation for the future should not come at the expense of teaching them about their roots.
“We must embrace modernisation, but we must not forget our origins.
“The community must prepare its youth for the future while ensuring they remain connected to their heritage,” he said when officiating at the opening of the DBNA Serian Community Hall here on Friday (Aug 21).
He said DBNA had played an important role in keeping Bidayuh identity alive through education programmes, seminars, symposiums, community land documentation, as well as cultural and community activities.
He added that these efforts require the involvement of educated professionals, leaders, youths and the wider community to ensure Bidayuh traditions and Adat continue to be passed on as society evolves.
Sagah also urged the Bidayuh community to move forward with a shared vision while strengthening unity among its various groups.
“Buildings can be built with money, but communities are built through unity,” he said.
That vision is reflected in the purpose behind the new DBNA Serian building, which is intended to be more than a venue for community gatherings.
DBNA Serian chairman Dr Charlie Unggang said the facility would serve as a centre for promoting Bidayuh cultural heritage while providing space for education seminars, workshops and community activities.
He said the building would also give the community a place to meet, plan and come together, allowing DBNA to continue playing its role in strengthening ties among Bidayuh people.
“This building is more than bricks, concrete and steel.
“It is a symbol of our community’s determination. It is a symbol of the confidence placed in DBNA. And above all, it is a symbol of what can be achieved when we work together with one common goal and vision,” he said.
The new building marks another chapter for DBNA Serian, which was established in 1970. Its first building was constructed in 1972 and served the community for decades, including as a venue for activities and accommodation during emergencies.
However, as the old building deteriorated and became increasingly costly to maintain, the branch pursued a replacement and eventually secured a RM4.5 million government grant, with construction beginning in July 2024 and the completed building handed over to DBNA Serian in February this year.
Dr Charlie said the branch would now focus on ensuring the facility remained a place where the community could preserve its heritage, organise educational activities and come together as one. — DayakDaily
