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KUCHING, July 20: The Sarawak Initiatives (TSI) is hosting a series of nine talks to educate the youth of Sarawak about the diversity of the State’s population.
The first talk will take place this Saturday, July 22, a date of great significance, as per TSI.
“We believe it is important to hold the first talk on the day Sarawak gained self-government 60 years ago.
“It is unforgivable that young Sarawak people today know so little about the diversity of the Sarawak population, and we hope that this series of talks will stimulate their interest in the many ethnic groups in Sarawak and help our young people appreciate their heritage.
“Even universities located in Sarawak do not offer courses on the diversity of Sarawak’s population. Sarawak’s multiculturalism is a hallmark of Sarawak’s identity,” said TSI president Sidi Munan.
The nine talks will encompass all the major ethnic groups in Sarawak, including the Sarawak Malays, Kedayan, Chinese, Melanau, Iban, Bidayuh, Kelabit and Sa’ban, Lun Bawang, Tabun, Tagal and Bisaya, Kayan and Kayan, Penan and Punan.
“All the speakers are local researchers including Dr Ipoi Datan, Jayl Langub, Dr Charlie Ungang, Prof Dr Noria Tugang, Datin Dr Valerie Mashman, Dr Rosalind Wan, Dora Jok, Dr Ling Huong Yian, Robinson Benedict Mugok, and Dr Nur Aida Kipli. The talks were curated by Prof James Chin.”
In addition, TSI stated that it held its first series of leadership talks last year, which were well received by the participants.
“Many of the young people who participated in the first series are now working on TSI-sponsored projects to make Sarawak a better place.”
TSI hosted an education summit on July 4-5, which discussed education autonomy for Sarawak. The speakers were Emeritus Professor Datuk Dr Shad Saleem Faruqi, Dato Sri JC Fong, Datuk Amar Michael Manyin, and Dr Abdul Rahman Deen.
According to a TSI press release, the non-governmental organisation (NGO) is dedicated to training the next generation of leaders to serve Sarawak and increase understanding of Sarawak’s identity.
Young Sarawakians who are interested in participating in the upcoming series of talks may contact TSI at thesarawakinitiatives@gmail.com or visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/thesarawakinitiatives. TSI may be reached at +60 19-876 7928 for any inquiries. — DayakDaily
