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KUCHING, July 11: The immense hardships experienced, especially during the Second World War under Japanese occupation, where people were forced to use tree bark to make “sirat” or loincloth, severe movement restrictions, scarcity of salt, arduous transportation, and being compelled to learn how to create wooden guns and war tools in school, became a catalyst for Sarawak’s call for independence six decades ago.
Former Sarawak Cabinet minister (1963-1970) Dato Sri Bo’ Tajang Laing, 97, in sharing the struggles experienced by Sarawak throughout the significant historical periods starting from the era of Rajah Brooke’s rule, has emphasised the importance of unity between Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia for the sake of the nation’s future.
“Let’s not be divided, but unite under the banner of Malaysia. By standing together as one nation, we can fortify our strength and ensure that external forces would not be able to disrupt the peace we have worked hard to achieve.
“People of Sarawak must remember to appreciate and honour the services and contributions of past leaders in Sarawak as their relentless efforts had paved the way for independence and established a solid foundation for Sarawak’s ongoing progress.
“I am so happy to see the progress achieved in Sarawak including roads, agriculture farms, hydro dams and better livelihood of people,” he told Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) in an interview at his home along with his wife Datin Sri Devong Anyi recently.
During the interview, Bo’ Tajang narrated his life journey and the struggles he faced in pursuing education during those difficult times, how he got involved in politics after independence representing the Orang Ulu community, and witnessing as history unfold from Rajah Brooke’s rule to Japanese occupation, and life under the British colony to Sarawak finally attaining independence in 1963.
Bo’ Tajang vividly recalled the arduous transportation methods, where boats were the only means for travel to get everywhere.
“From the village, we had to paddle the boat to reach schools, markets, and even to Sibu due to the absence of motor engines or ships. One boat was capable of accommodating 20 people and we paddled together. It took about three to four days to reach Sibu.
“But life in those days was relatively simpler and goods were cheaper and affordable, as rubber and bamboo mats served as the primary trade commodities,” he said.
However, the onset of the Second World War brought significant changes as Rajah Brooke lost and Sarawak fell under Japanese rule, causing immense hardships for the local populace.
“Movement was restricted so trade activities also stopped. We had to use tree bark for making ‘sirat’. Salt became scarce, and the Malay people resorted to making apong salt…. imagine the hardships people had gone through. Those were very difficult times,” he said.
Subsequently, the British came and defeated Japan and briefly restored a sense of relief. Trade activities resumed until Sarawak finally achieved independence.
He also highlighted the difficulties encountered in acquiring knowledge during the Rajah Brooke’s rule and the Japanese occupation.
“I went to school for a year during Rajah Brooke’s reign. Even during the Japanese rule, I attended school but I learnt to create wooden guns and tools for war. The pursuit of education was difficult due to the limited facilities and lack of support systems,” he added.
Recalling the past, Bo’ Tajang expressed gratitude for the government’s current efforts in supporting education and recognising the importance of providing opportunities for young people to acquire knowledge easily.
These challenging experiences ultimately became catalysts for Sarawak’s call for independence 60 years ago. The prolonged colonisation under British rule, combined with advice from other nations that had gained independence, prompted Sarawakians to seek their own liberation and embrace independence for progress aligned with global norms.
Born in Uma Nyaving, Long Linau in Belaga, Bo’ Tajang hails from the Kayan Orang Ulu tribe and has dedicated his life to education, governance, and economic development.
Notably, he became the first Kayan teacher from Belaga in 1948 after graduating from Batu Lintang Teacher’s Training College. He had taught at SK Abun Matu, Belaga before establishing SK Long Linau in 1953.
He played a vital role in the agricultural diversification of Belaga, introducing cash crops such as rubber, cocoa, and palm oil. Throughout his tenure as a teacher in Long Linau and later in Sungai Asap after the Bakun Hydroelectric project, he worked tirelessly to uplift the community’s economic well-being.
Bo’ Tajang’s impact extended beyond education and agriculture. His involvement as a member of the Cobbold Commission in 1962 provided representation for the Orang Ulu community, solidifying his commitment to public service.
He served as a member of the Kapit District Assembly and State Assembly in 1965 and held various ministerial positions from 1963 to 1970, including Minister of State Affairs (1963-1966), as well as Minister of Agriculture and Minister of Forestry until 1970.
He was also the Belaga assemblyman from 1979 to 1983.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Bo’ Tajang was awarded the title of Dato Sri (PNBS) and honoured as the Founder of Independence Fighters (PPK) in 2013. His remarkable achievements and selfless service make him an exemplary figure in the development of Sarawak and the Dayak-Orang Ulu community. — DayakDaily
