KUCHING: Sarawak which is observing its 60th year of independence from the colonial powers owes its success since then to forward thinking leaders.
Independence fighter Datuk Seri Bo’ Tajang Laing who served in the State Cabinet from 1963-1970 said these leaders have played a crucial role in guiding and steering the state wisely.
As a result, Sarawak has become one of the advanced states in Malaysia, with rapid economic growth, developing infrastructure, quality education system, and improved quality of life for its people.
“Now that we have reached our 60th independence anniversary, I am grateful to those who have managed the lives of the people in Sarawak, especially the Sarawak Premier and Prime Minister, who have planned together with other honourable leaders to safeguard our present lives,” he said.
“I am now pleased to see the progress that has been achieved, such as highways, plantation crops, hydroelectric dams, and the well-being of the people.
“Many of our comrades have passed away, while others have grown old. I pay tribute and extend my heartfelt thanks to all the state leaders, starting from Datuk Stephen Kalong Ningkan, who led us to independence at that time, right up to the current leaders who continue to strive to maintain stability.
“Without their good efforts, we would not be content today,” said the 97-year-old in an interview by the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS) at his residence with his wife, Datin Seri Devong Anyi, here on Saturday.
At the same time, Bo’ Tajang reminded the people to appreciate and remember the services and contributions of past leaders who worked hard to achieve independence and establish a strong foundation for Sarawak to continue progressing.
In that regard, he emphasised the importance of a strong relationship and unity between the peninsula and Sarawak in the name of Malaysia to achieve a bright future.
“We must not be divided, peninsula and Sarawak. If we unite to form a country under one name, Malaysia, we will remain strong, and outsiders will not be able to disturb our peace,” he said.
During the one-hour interview Bo’ Tajang also shared his struggles in representing the Orang Ulu community in the past, from the time Sarawak was under the rule of the Brooke family, during the Japanese occupation, living under British colonialism until independence.
He recounted his life journey and struggle to obtain an education during challenging times and how he became involved in politics after independence.
Describing the hardships during that period, he said it was a major factor that motivated Sarawak to strive for independence 60 years ago.
“We were colonised for a long time, and at that time, we were under the protection of the British government. So, there were people who were already independent advising us, asking why we didn’t want independence when, according to world customs, once we are developed, we can be independent,” he added.
Bo’ Tajang who dedicated his life to education, governance, and economic development in the state was born in Uma Nyaving, Long Linau, Belaga.
In 1948, he became the first Kayan teacher from Belaga after completing his studies at the Batu Lintang Teacher’s Training College.
He later became a teacher at SK Abun Matu, Belaga before establishing his own school, SK Long Linau, in 1953.
He pioneered cash crop plantations in Belaga, such as rubber, cocoa, and oil palm, to diversify the economic livelihoods since his time as a teacher in Long Linau until the community relocated to Sungai Asap after the construction of the Bakun Hydroelectric Dam.
Bo’ Tajang played a significant role in representing the Orang Ulu community as a member of the Cobbold Commission in 1962 and also served as a member of the Kapit District Council and State Assembly in 1965.
From 1963 to 1970, he served as a State Minister and held the positions of Minister of State Affairs from 1963 to 1966, Minister of Agriculture, and Minister of Forestry until 1970.
In the field of politics, he served as the Belaga Assemblyman in 1979 and 1983.
In addition to his remarkable achievements and service, Bo’ Tajang was bestowed the title Datuk Sri (PNBS) and honoured as the Founder of Independence Fighters (PPK) in 2013.
