KAPIT: An advisor to the Chief Minister’s Department, Datuk Alexander Nanta Linggi , Bukit Goram assemblyman Jefferson Jamit Unyat and Kapit District Council walikota Dato Philemon Nuing jointly officiated the ‘ngentak tiang’ (laying of foundation stone) ceremony of the new 35-door Rumah Kayan longhouse in Nanga Dia, Batang Rajang here over the weekend.
‘Ngentak tiang’ is an Iban tradition of erecting the main column or pillar of a new longhouse. The ceremony is a form of asking for blessing and protection for a new longhouse to be built smoothly.
Speaking at the function, Jamit congratulated the JKKK (Village Security and Development Committee) for working closely with the longhouse community.
He said to build a new longhouse smoothly, it required the support and cooperation of all 35 ‘tuai bilik’ (head of families). He was pleased to see the spirit of comradeship and close cooperation among them.
“Since this is a brand-new longhouse, my advice to the JKKK is to focus on safety aspects. Think of the safety measures such as fire-breaker, proper drainage and sewage system to ensure a safe and healthy environment that is conducive for living. It is also vital to reserve spaces for vehicle parking, open space for recreational activities.”
He disclosed that he had allocated RM200,000 to construct a concrete road from the main road to the longhouse site.
He also announced a government grant of RM40,000 to kick-start the construction of the new longhouse.
