By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, Aug 11: Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has emphasised that World Indigenous Peoples Day 2024 serves as an important platform for discussing and addressing key issues concerning Indigenous communities.
Abang Johari expressed his belief that participants in the seminars and discussions had the opportunity to discuss and debate key issues concerning Indigenous communities, such as land rights, education, health, economy, leadership, infrastructure, and culture.
“I hope this will result in the best resolutions that can serve as guidelines for the government in developing programs and welfare initiatives for Indigenous communities across Malaysia, and perhaps even in neighbouring countries,” he said.
The speech delivered by the Premier was read by Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, who represented him to officiate at the World Indigenous Peoples Day 2024, which was held last night (Aug 10) at the Christian Ecumenical Worship Centre, Jalan Stampin here.
Abang Johari also stated that the World Indigenous Peoples Day 2024 celebration, themed ‘Protecting Indigenous Rights through Voluntary Isolation and Initial Contact’, should be given due consideration in accordance with Indigenous peoples’ aspirations.
Furthermore, the Premier highlighted that the government has never engaged in any form of oppression against indigenous peoples and has consistently upheld their rights.
“The Malaysian government has always done its utmost to fulfil its responsibilities in safeguarding the interests and rights of indigenous peoples.
“I would like to emphasise that our government has never engaged in any form of oppression against Indigenous peoples or their rights.
“The government has always recognised the significant contributions of indigenous communities to national development, including in areas such as the economy, social welfare, culture, and education,” he said.
Abang Johari further called for continued efforts to elevate the living standards of indigenous communities through sustainable income-generating strategies and entrepreneurial empowerment.
He affirmed that Sarawak’s rich cultural heritage and traditions remain central to its identity, with the event serving as a celebration of these vibrant and diverse cultures. — DayakDaily
