By Lian Cheng
KUCHING, April 14: Hulu Rajang MP Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong is the new National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (Niosh) chairman, the first Iban appointed to the post.
Ugak said the appointment is recognition of the Iban community in Sarawak and that Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin is a premier for all races.
“I am the very first Iban to head the institute (Niosh). I am very proud of it and I want to thank the Prime Minister for his recognition as well as the top leaders of GPS (Gabungan Parti Sarawak) Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg as well as my president (Parti Rakyat Sarawak president) Tan Sri Dr James Jemut Masing,” Ugak told DayakDaily.
He said Niosh which is under the Human Resources Ministry is an important agency looking after the safety and health of workers in all sectors.
“I understand it is quite a challenging job and I will try my utmost best to carry out my duty,” said Ugak.
He was informed of his appointment on April 8.
“Initially, Niosh is supposed to have a meeting on April 16. However, due to Covid-19, the meeting has been postponed indefinitely.
“We will have to wait for the Covid-19 movement restriction order to be over first, before we can hold a meeting,” Ugak revealed.
Prior to Ugak, the chairman’s post was held by Democratic Action Party (DAP)’s Lanang MP Alice Lau who replaced Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye, who held the post for over 25 years since 1994. — DayakDaily
