BINTULU: The Dayak community in the state needs to remain united and cooperate closely with one another for continuous development and progress.
Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Stephen Rundi Utom, said as the majority ethnic group in Sarawak, the Dayak need to come together as one big family.
He said Dayak associations or organisations such as the Dayak Bidayuh National Association, Sarakup Indu Dayak Sarawak, Orang Ulu National Association, Sarawak Dayak Iban Association, and others play an important role in unifying the Dayak community in the state.
“The Dayak community needs to adhere to unity that truly upholds the rights and interests of all ethnic groups and not just fight for personal agendas that only benefit certain parties,” he said during the launching of the Pre-Gawai 2023 Dinner here on Saturday (May 13).
He reiterated that this year’s theme, ‘Segulai Sejalai,’ serves as a useful platform and guide for the community to continue fostering close cooperation with one another.
“Therefore, the celebration of Gawai this year will enable the community to share their feelings and ideas on how to improve themselves for the better in the future,” he added.
During the dinner event, Dr. Rundi also announced a grant allocation of RM20,000 to the Bintulu Pre-Gawai Dinner Committee.
Contributions were also made by the federal Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, who is also Bintulu Member of Parliament (RM20,000); Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development II (Port Development) Datuk Majang Renggi, who is also Samalaju assemblyman (RM15,000); and Tanjong Batu assemblyman Johnny Pang (RM5,000).
