By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Aug 24: Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and UKAS) Datuk Abdullah Saidol today shared a personal recollection of life under curfew during the insurgency era in his hometown of Binatang, now known as Bintangor, to emphasise the importance of safeguarding peace.
Abdullah said the area between Julau, Sarikei and Binatang was once a hotspot for communist activities, where many clashes between security forces and insurgents took place.
“I still remember as a child seeing helicopters—the ones with the red front—dropping small leaflets and posters with pictures of communists whose faces were shot. It was terrifying,” he said when speaking at a community programme to honour national heroes together with media representatives at Heroes’ Monument Park here this morning.
The Semop assemblyman also recalled the strict curfew imposed during that time, which started after 6pm, and the grim aftermath of battles.
“After 6pm, there was a curfew and we couldn’t go out. The next morning, we would see people collecting the bodies after the clashes.
“I heard so many gunfire exchanges then. That was the time I lived through as a child,” he added.
Abdullah stressed that these painful memories serve as a reminder of the importance of peace and unity, which have enabled Sarawak to progress and prosper today.
“Peace allows us to conduct business, create opportunities and deliver development for the people. Without peace, everything becomes difficult,” he said, urging all parties to preserve harmony and unity in Sarawak.
The inaugural programme brought together media practitioners and various community groups from across Kuching, including the Sarawak Armed Forces Veterans Association, the Malaysian Ex-Police Association (Sarawak branch), and former VAT69 commandos.
Also present was Sarawak Public Communications Unit (UKAS) director Awang Putrayusrie Awang Redzuan. – DayakDaily
