SRI AMAN: During a Pre-Gawai celebration held at Ruman Nanyi organised by SUPP Lingga Branch, Assistant Minister of Community Wellbeing, Datuk Francis Harden who is also Simanggang Assemblyman announced a grant of RM5,000 to the longhouse’s development and security committee (JKKK), RM3,000 to the Women’s Bureau and five extinguishers.
In his speech when launching the celebration, Harden urged the Dayak community to remain united in order to further develop the state.
“The development taking place in the state now is due to prevailing political stability and racial harmony,” he said.
He also noted that the younger generation of the Iban community is now influenced by foreign culture and this problem needed to the tackled immediately.
“We are concerned that our tradition, culture and customs will be forgotten in the future due to the influence of foreign culture through globalisation.
“Hence, I suggest that all Dayak communities to conduct traditional dance classes and other activities for the younger generation so that they can continue to uphold Dayak traditional dances and practices,” Harden said.
Among those present were chairman of SUPP Lingga Branch, Kapitan Kueh Aik Seng, Deputy Chairman of Sri Aman District Council, Councillor Andar Suntai, Pemanca Lee Siang Hua and other local community leaders.
