By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Jan 31: Twenty-five brick-built terrace houses complete with basic infrastructure and essential facilities are being constructed alongside several small-scale development projects and a planned 300-hectare agricultural area to provide the Penan families of Data Pila in Baram with safety, dignity, and renewed hope for a better future.
Deep in the heart of Sarawak’s vast rainforest, the initiative was highlighted during a meaningful working visit by Forest Department Sarawak (FDS) director Datu Hamden Mohammad, who travelled to Data Pila to engage directly with the Penan community, whose lives and identity have long been intertwined with the forest.
More than a ceremonial call, FDS shared in its social media on Friday (Jan 30) that the visit focused on listening to the community’s real challenges and sharing a sincere commitment to uplifting lives without erasing cultural identity.
In an area often portrayed as remote and inaccessible, a bold yet responsible development vision is now taking shape.
Through close cooperation between a local timber company and FDS, a modern settlement is being developed in the midst of the wilderness.
The 25 brick-built terrace houses are expected to provide safer living conditions and improved quality of life for Penan families, while respecting the surrounding environment.
Beyond housing, several small-scale development projects and a 300-hectare agricultural area have been planned to support sustainable livelihoods, strengthen food security, and open pathways towards long-term economic independence for the community.
During the engagement, Hamden also advised the Penan community to remain united and discerning, cautioning them against being easily influenced by external parties, particularly non-governmental organisations whose narratives may not reflect the community’s true needs or the Baram region’s long-term development.
He stressed that genuine progress can only be achieved through constructive cooperation with the government and responsible partners.
He expressed hope that the initiative would serve as a catalyst for inclusive development in Baram, demonstrating that development, tradition, and environmental stewardship can coexist.
Despite the brief visit, he said the warmth and sincerity of the Penan community left a lasting impression, underscoring that meaningful development begins with trust, partnership, and humanity. — DayakDaily
