Jaythaleela K
MIRI, June 27: The Ibans community in Sarawak must stay united under one umbrella like the Orang Ulu community to allow their voice continue to be heard by the government instead of forming various Dayak-based groups.
This was the call made by Public Health and Housing Deputy Minister Datu Dr Penguang Manggil when attending the Sarakup Induk Dayak Sarawak (SIDS) Miri branch during its Ngiling Bidai programme here on Sunday.
He said when the Ibans were unified, they could have a strong and firm voice.
“Make unity your priority, put aside your differences, enough with the formation of various kind of Dayak-based associations when you can actually united under one ‘umbrella’ (roof)…emulate the spirit of the Orang Ulu in getting what they want through unity,” said Penguang.
According to him, because of political differences, the Ibans are very divided.
“Forget about my political background, you may not like me today, but the importance is that we united as one under one roof… and work together with the State government…so please, think about it, because we need a ‘banner’, we need a ‘place’ for further development of the Ibans,” he pointed out.
Penguang said during his recent meeting with the Dayak Association Miri (DAM), he put forth the same emphasis and reminder.
At the Ngiling Bidai event, Penguang pledged worth of RM20,000 to SIDS Miri.
Also present were Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Sebastian Ting, SIDS Sarawak chairlady Datuk Alice Jawan Empaling and Miri’s SIDS chairperson Jenny Jeli. — DayakDaily
