KUCHING, May 31: Dayak National Congress (DNC) urges all Dayaks to cooperate with the authorities and JKKK to ensure no Covid-19 Gawai cluster.
In a press statement today, DNC president Paul Raja expressed empathy for those who have yet to reunite with their families for a long time and to rejoice with their loved ones and old folks in longhouses as this is the the second consecutive year that Gawai Dayak could not be celebrated in a real do.
“We are now in a state of war, but not with guns and bullets; but one which does not discriminate between children, women, young and old, race and religion. All are prone to be victims. The virus is invisible, fleet-footed and ruthlessly.
“As it is not going away soon, it is the concerted effort of everyone to beat it this year. We plead with all the Dayak community to be always vigilant and maintain a high level of safety alert. Follow all the SOP set up.
“Cooperate with the authorities and the JKKK (Village Safety and Development Committee) to ensure that there will be “no Gawai cluster”. We can do it! This year, with God’s help and every effort made, we will beat the pandemic so that next year we will celebrate Gawai Dayak again,” said Paul.
As much as this pandemic had claimed many lives, it has also taken its toll on the economy and the livelihood of many members of the Dayak community. Paul urged the government to ensure that all the assistance programme reached the down trodden and even the undocumented Dayaks in the interior.
“Inspite of the crisis we are in, Dayak National Congress, nevertheless, wishes our members, friends and the whole Dayak Community “Selamat Gawai Dayak, Gayu Guru Gerai Nyamai Lantang Senang Nguan Menua“. — DayakDaily
