By Ashley Sim
FOR HUNDREDS OF YEARS, the Penan have been living in the deep jungle of Borneo, relying on their extensive knowledge of nature and their strong community bonds to thrive. Access to education remains a challenge, limiting their horizons and potentials.
But now, the winds of change are blowing through the Apoh-Tutoh forest canopy, as a collaborative effort between Petronas and the Sarawak government has paved the way for the development of these potentially life-changing kindergartens for the Penan community.
Recognising the challenges faced by the community in accessing education, Petronas and the Sarawak government came together to bridge the gap and address the pressing need for greater learning opportunities for Penan children where five new kindergartens have been set up in the Penan settlement area of Apoh-Tutoh region in Baram District.
Through these early childhood education centres, Penan children have the opportunity to embark on transformational journeys of learning and growth, while igniting the spark of curiosity within their hearts.
The construction of the kindergartens in the five remote Penan settlements of Long Kawa, Long Jenalong, Long Leng, Long Kerangan, and Ba’ Selulong began in 2016 and was completed in 2020 at a cost of RM2.75 million.
The funds were contributed by Petronas as part of its larger Social Impact programme.
Uniting hearts, fostering dreams
Jubilant cheers and heartfelt embraces fill the air as the Penan community in Kampung Long Leng Layun celebrated the launch of Tadika Sedidik Long Leng on July 4, 2023 — the only such establishment in their remote village.
The faces of teachers, parents, and children alike were filled with overflowing happiness and gratitude as they witnessed the realisation of a dream – a brand new, early education centre that will help shape the future of their beloved community.
The classroom, adorned with colourful decorations and filled with educational resources, provides a vibrant and stimulating atmosphere for young and curious minds.
I sat down with two five-year-olds and asked them: “What do you want to be when you grow up?”
Their answers were tinged with the potential of dreams and aspirations that stretched far beyond the borders of their remote village.
“I want to be a doctor so that I can help people,” one child replied.
The other said: “I want to be a scientist because I love science.”
These young Penans were not just dreamers; they also carry the seeds of hope and inspiration for their community.
Prior to the establishment of the kindergartens, many Penan children lacked access to formal education, severely limiting the means with which they can break free from the cycle of limited opportunities. Now, they eagerly dress in their school uniforms, excited to go to school to learn each day.
With this early exposure to education, the children are developing new-found confidence and curiosity about the world around them. Their inquisitive minds are nurtured, and they are encouraged to ask questions, explore their surroundings, and develop a deeper understanding of their heritage and environment.
Penan children embrace a language once unfamiliar to them
It is truly inspiring to see Penan children communicating in basic English. Through my interactions with them, their enthusiasm in speaking the English language was palpable.
These Penan children are defying stereotypes and embracing new horizons, demonstrating that, given the proper opportunities and support, the world can be their oyster.
With basic English language proficiency, they are now better prepared to access further education and explore a variety of careers that were once beyond their reach. The potential for scholarships, exchange programmes and even international job opportunities is greatly increased, heralding a new chapter of possibilities for the Penan youth.
“My five-year-old son often shares what he has learned in school and tells me how much he enjoys reading English story books. He will even speak to me in English, even though I don’t understand the language,” said Shirley Andrias, the mother of one of the Tadika Sedidik Long Leng pre-schoolers, speaking in Bahasa Malaysia.
“I am thankful that our village now has a kindergarten that allows parents to realise their dream of giving their children a proper education. It is an improvement that we now have a kindergarten. During my time, we entered Primary One without knowing the ABCs.
“The Sedidik kindergarten provides children with the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of education. By the time the children enter Primary One, they already know their alphabets, can write, and so on.”
She also expressed hope that more children would attend the kindergarten so that they can broaden their horizons and avoid falling behind the rest of the community.
Incorporating sign language into learning experiences
During the Tadika Sedidik Long Leng opening ceremony, the Penan children took to the stage. Dressed in smart attire and traditional clothing, they used sign language to ‘sing’ the national anthem, ‘Negaraku’, as well as the State anthem, ‘Ibu Pertiwiku’.
This unique performance not only captivated the audience but also served as a reminder that patriotism knows no bounds and can be expressed through diverse means of communication.
During the ceremony, Women, Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development (KPWK) Sarawak Minister Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah highlighted the importance of introducing sign language to children at a young age. She emphasised that this practice helps educators promote inclusivity, empathy, and respect for diversity.
“Learning sign language is a rich and immersive experience that engages multiple senses, including touch, sight, and sound. This means that it caters to various learning styles, making it accessible to a diverse range of individuals,” explained Christie Nancy, the kindergarten teacher’s assistant.
“Signing is an effective method to maintain children’s focus and attention due to its incorporation of physical movement.
“Furthermore, numerous studies have consistently demonstrated that sign language accelerates the process of speech development, alleviates frustration, and empowers children to effectively communicate. Additionally, it enhances children’s social skills by boosting their confidence and self-esteem.”
Dedicated Penan teachers
Tadika Sedidik Long Leng currently only has two teachers who are passionate about lighting the path of education for their young charges.
These teachers, hailing from the same community they serve, are determined to nurture the next generation, empower them with knowledge, and foster within them a deep appreciation for their cultural heritage.
Setiawan Maister who is currently pursuing an Early Childhood Education diploma at a local university in Miri through online classes said it was an honour to be appointed as the first teacher to teach at the kindergarten.
“I am extremely grateful for the support provided by the authorities in our community to help us prioritise education and raise awareness about early childhood education.
“I also have a six-year-old son who attends this kindergarten. I am proud to see the progress he has made, along with the other children,” she said.
The teachers of Tadika Sedidik Long Leng are not just beacons of inspiration, they are also helping to foster a culture of lifelong learning and facilitating greater opportunities for generations to come. Their dedication, love, and commitment exemplify the power of education in transforming lives and communities.
They are not just teachers; they are the architects of change which will enable the Penan community to thrive in a rapidly changing world while preserving the essence of their cultural heritage.
Sarawak Premier proud of Penans’ achievements
Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg disclosed during the opening ceremony that the Penan community has produced 226 university graduates in less than three decades despite being an ethnic minority group with a majority of its population still residing in rural areas.
“Today, we are so fortunate to be able to celebrate the opening of five Penan kindergartens,” he said.
“Some 34 years ago, I travelled to Long Jekitan and opened a school for the Penan children there. We began with Long Jekitan and gave Penan children the opportunity to attend school, and now we can see the success.
“Today, we have one Penan Resident Officer, a Penan District Officer, and a significant number of government officers from the Penan community,” he said.
According to him, the Penan community has produced three graduates with master’s degrees, 142 degree holders, and 81 diploma holders between 1998 and 2022.
The Premier also pointed out that there are currently two Penan students pursuing their doctorate degrees, one student pursuing a master’s degree, 22 students pursuing bachelor’s degrees, and 21 students pursuing diplomas.
Abang Johari, also known as ‘Menteri Penan’ among the Penan community in Baram, expressed his optimism regarding the increasing number of Penan individuals graduating from universities in the near future.
“I believe that Sarawak, including the Penan community, will experience a promising future, despite the challenges we face in encouraging their participation in education in the past,” he added.
Abang Johari also expressed optimism that the Penan will actively participate in the transformation of the rural areas especially with the help of new technologies such as carbon trading, forest conservation, and biodiversity.
“If the Penan community were to have skilled scientists who possess a deep understanding of our biodiversity, it would be possible to develop medicines capable of curing various tropical diseases and other infectious illnesses.
“In order for us to cultivate these talents, it is essential that they are provided with quality education. In order for individuals to progress in their lives, it is crucial that they have a solid foundation. This is why we place great importance on early childhood education.
“The Sarawak government remains committed to prioritising early childhood education in both urban and rural areas,” he added.
Kindergartens as stepping stones for Penan children in Baram
In the vast expanse of the rainforest, Tadika Sedidik Long Leng and the other four kindergartens represent not just places of learning but are seen as symbols of empowerment, unity, and resilience of the Penan people.
Through early childhood education, the Penan children of Baram will be better placed to make their mark in the world while preserving their cultural heritage and connection to the magnificent rainforest they call home. — DayakDaily
