By Karen Bong
KUCHING, May 30: The newly launched book Commemorating a Century of Kapit Peacemaking (1924–2024) stands as a crucial effort to preserve history — a vital foundation for understanding the present and shaping the future, particularly for younger and future generations.
This was the key message by Minister of Works Malaysia and Kapit MP Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi as he officiated the launch of the book Commemorating a Century of Kapit Peacemaking (1924–2024), a publication marking one of Sarawak’s most pivotal historical events.
Describing the book as a valuable contribution to collective memory, Nanta said it captures the essence of the 1924 Kapit peacemaking ceremony — a milestone that brought an end to inter- and intra-tribal warfare and laid the foundation for peace and unity among Sarawak’s diverse communities.
“The Kapit Peacemaking of 1924 was a pivotal event that forged a spirit of unity. Today, Sarawak enjoys peace and stability thanks to such turning points. Documenting this moment is not just about recording the past, but about preserving it for the understanding of future generations,” he said during the ceremony held at Dayak Cultural Foundation today.
Nanta extended his gratitude to the book’s editorial team from the Dayak Cultural Foundation and Tun Jugah Foundation, acknowledging the advisory role played by Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Leonard Linggi Jugah.
He stressed that while documenting such events is no easy feat, it is a necessary one. “If significant events like this are not documented, our history risks being lost and forgotten. With modern technology, we can now digitise and preserve them for future accessibility,” he said.
Editor Dr Regina Garai explained that the book is not a traditional historical account, but rather a “living record” — a compilation of voices, events, and reflections surrounding the centennial commemoration of the original peace-making.
“It is our sincere hope that this book will not only preserve valuable knowledge about peace-making but also serve as a bridge between past and present. We want it to ignite interest among younger generations and instil pride in our shared heritage,” she said.
They highlighted the importance of understanding the past to make sense of the present and guide future actions — making Commemorating a Century of Kapit Peacemaking a timely and meaningful contribution to Sarawak’s historical literature.
The event also marked a reminder that unity, respect, and shared history remain the cornerstones of Sarawak’s enduring peace and progress.
Deputy Minister for Native Law and Customs Datuk Jefferson Jamit Unyat, Deputy Minister for Telecommunication and Belaga assemblyman Datuk Liwan Lagang, Murum assemblyman Kennedy Chukpai Ugon, Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) president Datuk Joseph Salang Gandum, managing trustee of Dayak Cultural Foundation and advisor of the Organising Committee of the 100 th Anniversary of Kapit Peacemaking Agreement 1924 Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Leonard Linggi Jugah, and book editor Dr Regina Garai were present. — DayakDaily
