By Marlynda Meraw
KUCHING, May 4: Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development Sarawak Dato Gerald Rentap Jabu supports Deputy Chief Minister of Sabah Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey Kitingan’s statement that the term ‘Dayak’ is a more suitable representation of the indigenous groups in Borneo.
Rentap said this following the launch of the second State-level Kaamatan festival celebration by the Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association (KDCA) at Pullman Hotel Kuching today.
“A few days ago, the Deputy Chief Minister in Sabah made a statement that for the (indigenous) people in Borneo, all of us should be called Dayaks. Why not? If it is something good, we should support it.
“Our gathering here today shows that we (Sarawak and Sabah) have always been ‘segulai sejalai’ (together in unity),” said Rentap.
He also reminds everyone not to allow any element to disrupt the social fabric and unity of all races in Borneo.
“When you touch one (of us), you touch all (of us). Kita pun terasa juga (We will get offended, too). If we are together, we unite, and we can be a big force to help each other grow,” Rentap added.
The event was officially launched with Rentap ringing the gong seven times and a souvenir presentation from KDCA Sabah representative James Samid to Rentap.
The Kaamatan festival celebration was first held at the Imperial Hotel Kuching in the previous year.
Also present were Batu Kitang assemblyman Lo Khere Chiang, Serembu assemblyman Miro Simuh, and other notable attendees. — DayakDaily
