(brass gong) seven times as (from left) former Deputy Chief Minister, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Alfred Jabu Numpang, Deputy Chief Ministers, Tan Sri Datuk Amar Dr
James Masing and Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Utilities Minister, Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom (right) bang on the ketebung (a traditional single sided drum). PHOTO: MARVIN KUDANG
KUCHING: A motion on the Native Customary Rights land, Pemakai Menoa and Pulau Galau issues will be tabled during the upcoming State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting in July. “We are aware that the issues are a sensitive one that is close to the hearts of landowners,” said Chief Minister, Datuk Patinggi (Dr) Abang Johari Tun Openg.
“The Pemakai Menoa and Pulau Galau Task Force, led by Deputy Chief Minister, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas as well as the Working Committee, led by Deputy State Secretary (Rural Transformation), Datu Jaul Samion, have been working very hard to resolve these issue. “Finally, we can see the light at the end of the tunnel.
I can assure the native communities that come July (at the DUN Sitting), there will be goodies for them,” said the Chief Minister during the statelevel Gawai Dayak Dinner 2018 at Penview Convention Centre (PCC) Demak on Saturday night.
Abang Jo added that the state government was aware of critical issues regarding development and income disparities between the urban and rural communities and will continue to prioritise the provision of infrastructure and basic amenities to reduce the jarring disparities.
“Economic activities will be planned and promoted in rural areas so that rural communities can benefit from incomes derived directly or indirectly from these activities,” he added during the Gawai celebration which was also attended by Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Haji Abdul Taib Mahmud and wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Hajah Ragad Kurdi Taib, Minister of Utilities and organising chairman of this year’s Gawai Dayak Dinner, Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom and other distinguished guests.
According to the Chief Minister, this year’s Gawai celebration was more vibrant with the array of activities and performances showcasing the importance of Dayak traditions in the social landscape of the state. “The prosperity and stability of the nation today are also the results of cooperation among all the races. They are vital to unity and tolerance among one another,” said Abang Jo.
