By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Apr 7: Bidayuh customary laws in Bau, Lundu, Serian and Siburan are slated for review to ensure they remain relevant, effective, and aligned with contemporary community needs, with a focus on stronger enforcement and practical applicability.
According to a report by Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas), Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development (MEITD) Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn said several provisions under the adat laws, especially penalty rates, no longer serve as effective deterrents.
“Existing fines are too low to reflect the seriousness of certain offences, and amendments are needed to ensure punishments are more proportionate and capable of discouraging wrongdoing,” he said in his speech during the 10th anniversary dinner of the DBNA Bidayuh Council of Elders held here on Monday (Apr 6).
Beyond enforcement, Sagah also drew attention to structural issues within the community, particularly in cemetery land management.
He said there are inconsistencies in cemetery land management within the Bidayuh community, with differing practices between villages and church institutions, and stressed that the matter requires a comprehensive and inclusive approach to reach a solution that accommodates both customary practices and institutional considerations.
In outlining the broader direction for community leadership, he underscored the concept of “Prima”, derived from the Bidayuh Biatah term for “panglima” as a guiding principle.
“Prima does not refer to a specific individual, but to whoever leads at a given time. That person is the true ‘Prima’,” he said.
He added that the concept reflects universal leadership values and highlights the importance of strong, principled leadership in guiding the community through evolving challenges.
Echoing the emphasis on continuity, Temenggong Henry Bujang Sendan highlighted the importance of youth participation in preserving Bidayuh heritage, culture and customary laws.
He said the involvement of younger generations is vital in sustaining community identity while adapting to changing circumstances. — DayakDaily
