By Jacob Achoi
SERIAN, Aug 22: The teaching of the Bidayuh language in schools may start next year, as a few schools have already been identified.
According to the Minister of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development Sarawak, Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, the matter has been submitted to the Ministry of Education (MoE).
“For the teaching of the Bidayuh language in schools, we have submitted the list of schools to the MoE and are now waiting for the final approval. We’re almost there,” Sagah told reporters today during the launching ceremony of a book on community leaders who have served in Serian.
Sagah, who is also Tarat assemblyman, said several schools in Serian, Bau, and Penrissen have been identified. However, he remained tight-lipped on the names of the schools.
“You just wait because if I tell you now, all our YBs (elected representatives) will ask me to include schools in their areas,” he quipped.
Earlier in his speech, Sagah urged Bidayuh elders to share their knowledge with the Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) for research and documentation purposes.
Serian MP, Dato Sri Richard Riot Jaem; Tebedu and Bukit Semuja assemblymen, Dr Simon Sinang Bada and John Ilus, respectively; Serian Resident Caroline Cleophas Joseph; Serian District Council (SDC) chairman Dato Peter Minos; and Advisor in the Sarawak Premier’s Office (Education), Datuk Amar Michael Manyin Jawong, were also present during the event. — DayakDaily
