By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, May 31: Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar reminded those travelling home to their hometowns for the upcoming Gawai Dayak festivities to prioritise safety and exercise caution during their travels.
In his Gawai Dayak message with his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, Wan Junaidi said, although Sarawak now has better and more comfortable roads, including the Pan Borneo Highway, this facility should not be misused as a racetrack.
“I also urge drivers to drive carefully and always comply with the rules and regulations of the road. Ensure that vehicles are in good and safe condition, including checking the condition of the tires, brake system, alignment, and steering.
“Before leaving, also ensure that the house you are leaving is properly locked and all electricity supplies are turned off to avoid any unwanted incidents,” he said.
He then added that the incident whereby nine Federal Reserve Unit (FRU) personnel were killed in a road accident along Jalan Chikus-Sungai Lampam in Teluk Intan, Perak, earlier this month should serve as an eye-opener to the importance of adhering to safety aspects and driving responsibly.
Meanwhile, Wan Junaidi also emphasised education as the core of community development, particularly in the era of globalisation and technological advancement.
“I greatly appreciate the efforts of the Sarawak government in ensuring that Sarawak children, especially in rural areas, are not left out of the flow of quality education.
“Various initiatives have been implemented to improve literacy rates and academic performance, including early intervention programmes and the opening of learning guidance centres.
“I hope that parents will continue to emphasise the importance of education to enable children to achieve success and build a brighter future.
“The Sarawak government remains committed to implementing inclusive infrastructure development. The programme to build and upgrade dilapidated schools is currently being actively implemented, especially in rural areas,” he said
He also stated that, in addition to schools, efforts to improve basic infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, clean water supplies, and telecommunications facilities, have been intensified and are clear evidence of the government’s commitment to bridging the gap between urban and rural development.
At the same time, he also expressed appreciation to non-governmental organisations (NGOs) that are actively involved in helping the community, particularly in the fields of education, welfare, health, and the preservation of Dayak culture.
“Through the implementation of various programmes such as contributions to educational needs for B40 students, free health campaigns, and initiatives to preserve Dayak arts and customs, NGOs have become important strategic partners in the effort to build an inclusive and prosperous society,” he said.
He concluded his message by urging everyone to maintain harmony, strengthen unity, and continue to work together to develop the country and achieve greater prosperity.
“I pray that this Gawai Dayak celebration will be celebrated with joy, gratitude and family spirit. Happy Gawai Dayak Dayak. Gayu Guru Gerai Nyamai, Lantang Senang Nguan Menua!” — DayakDaily
