By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Nov 30: The RM55 million Lebuk Melanau project, envisioned as a new nine-storey cultural and community hub for the Melanau community in Kuching, has received approval in principle and is expected to enter the tender stage early next year.
Deputy Minister for Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Datuk Len Talif Salleh said the project, which carries motifs and architectural elements reflecting Melanau heritage, was presented to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg earlier this year and received his endorsement.
“We briefed the Premier earlier this year and he agreed for the development of this nine-storey building,” he told reporters during a doorstep interview after officiating the Melanau Family Day 2025 programme at Wisma Melanau here yesterday. An audio recording of the interview was shared to DayakDaily on the same day.
Len Talif, who is also the patron of Persatuan Melanau Kuching, said the development aligns with the Sarawak government’s commitment to support various ethnic groups through dedicated facilities, similar to those provided for the Orang Ulu, Iban, Bidayuh and others.
According to him, the site, measuring about two acres, has been under the custodianship of the Lembaga Amanah Kebajikan Melanau for more than 30 years.
With the restructuring of the association following the passing of the late Sarawak Governor Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud, Sarawak Land and Survey director Datu Awang Zamhari Awang Mahmood has been nominated to lead the trust board.
“The area has seen a lot of development around it—Islamic Centre, Swinburne University, Borneo Medical Centre (BMC) and others—so the potential for Lebuk Melanau to serve the surrounding community is very good,” he added.
The project is expected to be completed within three years and will house various facilities including a hall, laundry amenities and other community-focused spaces.
Len Talif said preparations experienced slight delays as the committee initially hoped the project could be completed in time to leverage the upcoming SEA Games, but efforts are being made to expedite progress.
“With cooperation between the Melanau association, the trust board and Melanau organisations across Sarawak, we hope this project will uplift the Melanau community in line with other ethnic groups,” he added.
Earlier in his speech, he described the Lembaga Amanah Kebajikan Melanau as the umbrella body for Melanau associations Statewide, noting that the Lebuk Melanau development, funded through the RM55 million allocation approved by the Premier, will become a significant cultural landmark for the Melanau community in Kuching and nearby districts. – DayakDaily
