By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, April 28: A special allocation of RM150,000 has been granted for the Association for the Educational Development of Iban Language (AEDIL).
In a Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS) report, this followed a courtesy call by the association to Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas at Wisma Bapa Malaysia here today.
The allocation aims to further empower educational initiatives in Iban language development, seen not only as a means of communication but as a cornerstone of Sarawak’s cultural identity and heritage.
The aim of the courtesy call, led by AEDIL president Ambrose Jarit and accompanied by deputy president Abit Hong and committee members, was to strengthen strategic cooperation in advancing Iban language education across the State.
During the meeting, AEDIL gave the deputy premier a briefing on the association’s history and achievements since its establishment in 2009.
They also expressed their continued commitment to strengthening the professionalism of Iban language educators, expanding collaboration with government agencies, and advocating for policies that support the preservation and development of the Iban language.
In addition, AEDIL also reaffirmed its commitment to continuing the advancement of Iban language education as a living heritage, which is in line with Sarawak’s vision of becoming a progressive and prosperous State.
Earlier in January, Uggah had warned that the Iban language may eventually face extinction if no action is taken to formalise it at all levels of education and expressed concern that the younger Iban generations are gradually losing proficiency in the language.
Uggah called for the language to be formalised at all levels of education—primary, secondary, and even tertiary.
He also lamented that teaching the Iban language faces many challenges, and many who teach the subject in schools offering the subject are not qualified. — DayakDaily
