MIRI: Sibuti assemblyman Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni has put forward a proposal for the installation of a 45-metre flagpole in Miri.
Conveying his gratitude to Petronas for its contribution toward erecting Southeast Asia’s tallest flagpole near the State Legislative Assembly in Kuching, he expressed hope for a similar initiative in Miri.
“Thank you to PETRONAS for their contribution to the Ibu Pertiwi flagpole. If possible, even if we can’t have a 99-metre flagpole, at least 45 metres in Miri,” he said during the Christmas 2023 and New Year 2024 celebration at Wisma Melanau Miri yesterday (Dec 6).
In his address, he urged the younger generation of Melanau to preserve their unique identity to prevent their traditions from being lost in the tide of modernization.
“It is crucial that, once successful, we avoid arrogance and forgetting our customs and language. At least have basic knowledge of clothing and language to pass it on to future generations,” he said.
He highlighted that in today’s era, social media platforms could be utilised to showcase Melanau customs and culture to the people of Sarawak and Malaysia in general.
On the same note, Lukanisman also hoped that the Melanau Association would collaborate with other associations to strengthen relationships within the community.
He further expressed his wish for the association to contribute to the future income and economy of Miri City.
Present at the event were Pujut assemblyman who is also Miri City Council mayor Datuk Adam Yii Siew Sang, Melanau Association Miri Deputy President Datuk Alexander Maiyor, Sarawak Petronas Carigali senior asset manager Anuar Ismail, Melanau Association Miri president Abdullah Jaini, Melanau Association Miri vice-president Boniface Bait.
