By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, June 30: Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has called for continued efforts to safeguard ethnic customs, culture, and language in the face of modernisation, as the Sarawak government intensifies inclusive development in rural areas.
According to a TVS news report, Abang Johari emphasised that preserving unity and a strong family spirit is key to empowering cultural heritage and strengthening the bond between the people and the leadership, thereby paving the way for Sarawak’s inclusive progress.
“It is important to preserve the customs, cultures, and languages of our ethnic communities so that they are not marginalised in the wave of modernisation,” he said in a speech delivered by Batang Sadong MP Rodiyah Sapiee during the Ngiling Bidai Ceremony for the 2025 Gedong District Gawai Dayak celebration held at a local hotel here last night (June 29).
He urged all attendees to continue their resolve and efforts in fostering harmonious unity and family spirit while supporting initiatives to safeguard the Dayak cultural heritage.
The Premier noted that the participation of residents from 55 villages, covering the ulu, pangkor, and proper zones, reflected a strong sense of cooperation and unity within the district’s community.
“This celebration is not only vibrant with elements of cultural heritage but also shows the community’s support for unity and social development in this region,” he added.
Abang Johari also reiterated the Sarawak government’s commitment to further strengthening rural development by ensuring that progress is delivered holistically to all layers of society, regardless of location.
Also present at the event were Simunjan assemblyman Awla Dris, Samarahan Division Resident Irwan Bahari Bujang, and Iban Temenggong for Samarahan Division, Mohd @ Geoffrey Mamat Kuchai. — DayakDaily
