By DayakDaily Team
KAPIT, Dec 7: Sarawak is now confronting profound and complex challenges that demand collective hard work, persistence, and unity under the spirit of “Segulai Sejalai” (togetherness) to overcome obstacles and achieve greater progress and prosperity.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah stressed that history has shown that internal conflict and strife only leads to destruction, division, and loss.
He recounted Sarawak’s history of intra-tribal conflicts over spiritual beliefs, such as headhunting, social status, honour, and disputes over territory and resources, which created prolonged chaos and violence.
“When James Brooke began ruling Sarawak in 1841, these conflicts were already prevalent. The Brooke Administration itself faced significant resistance from local leaders who fought valiantly to preserve their traditions and autonomy.
“In response, the Brookes resorted to punitive expeditions to suppress uprisings, rebellions, and resistance movements,” he shared during the International Seminar on Peace Celebration, held to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Kapit Peacemaking Ceremony at the Civic Centre on Friday (Dec 6).
He highlighted key expeditions, including the Katibas Expeditions (1868, 1870, 1872, 1876), Ulu Ai (1875, 1902), Delok (1868), Great Kayan (1863), Gat (1915, 1919), Sadok (1857–1861), and the Battle of Beting Maru (1849).
Others included Bukit Batu (1881), Yong (1894), Bantin (1898), Trusan (1900), and the Lawai in Ulu Limbang (1905).
While these wars persisted, there were also numerous attempts at reconciliation through peacemaking ceremonies.
Uggah noted notable ceremonies in Lubok Antu (1888), Baram (1899), Kapit (1907, 1924), and Simanggang (1920, 1924).
“During these ceremonies, warring leaders exchanged valuable jars and performed rituals such as pig sacrifices (Bebanchak babi) in the presence of the Rajah, signifying their promise to maintain peace,” he explained.
The most impactful ceremony, he said, took place 100 years ago in Kapit on Nov 16, 1924. This event, which is being commemorated, was a turning point in Sarawak’s history, bringing together Iban, Kayan, Kenyah, and Kajang communities from Sarawak and Kalimantan.
“Kapit is also special as the birthplace of Tun Jugah Barieng, one of Malaysia’s founding fathers. This peacemaking marked the start of a journey toward reconciliation, healing, and unity,” Uggah said.
He described the ceremony as groundbreaking, as it united leaders and warriors from diverse tribes to formally agree to end hostilities.
“Since then, we have come a long way. The resultant peace has fostered a safer environment, economic growth, and social harmony, enabling collaboration among various groups for the common good.”
Uggah emphasised that Sarawak’s ability to coexist peacefully and cooperate fully is the foundation for tackling present and future challenges.
“We must have peace. Peace is the very foundation and the essence for us to move forward. With peace, we have the strength, wisdom and harmony to build a better tomorrow.
“Today, our challenges include climate change, technological advancements, food security, and income disparity—issues that require our immediate attention. Fortunately, we have learned to reject hatred and disunity,” he said.
He praised the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government under Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg for its inclusive policies, such as the Post-Covid Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which looks after the well being of all Sarawakians.
“This strategy offers opportunities for all Sarawakians and emphasises inclusivity as we strive toward a green and advanced economy.”
Uggah urged the Dayak community to collaborate among themselves and with others to achieve shared aspirations and ensure Sarawak’s global success.
Meanwhile, the seminar featured presentations by experts and academics from Australia, France, and Indonesia, addressing key topics related to Sarawak’s path toward sustainable peace and progress.
Main advisor the main organising committee and Tun Jugah Foundation chairman Datuk Patinggi Dr Leonard Linggi Tun Jugah, Deputy Digital Minister and Hulu Rajang MP Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong, and Deputy Minister of Telecommunication Datuk Liwan Lagang were present. — DayakDaily
