MIRI: The Ngepan Iban Symposium (SNI) should be made an official government event in the state, said Minister in the Premier’s Department Datuk John Sikie Tayai.
Speaking at the closing of SNI 2023 here on Saturday night, Sikie expressed hope that it will be held in the coming years with topics other than the Ngepan Iban (traditional costume).
“This symposium is not only a platform for us to discuss the Ngepan Iban but also other things, such as ‘Leka Main’ language or other related topics related to the Iban community,” he pointed out.
The Kakus assemblyman who represented Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said he will try to bring this matter for discussion with state leaders.
“If it can be implemented, then this can be included in the Sarawak event calendar so that it can be held every two years,” he said.
On another notes, he called on government agencies, community leaders as well as non-governmental organisations (NGOs), especially the Iban community, to continue preserving the art and culture of the Iban heritage.
“This is a valuable heritage for our next generations, we must preserve it so that it would not cease to exist,” he added.
Also present were his wife Datin Melia Gelen, Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government I (Public Health and Housing ) Datuk Dr Penguang Manggil and wife Datin Monica Ukong Jaya, Deputy Minister of Public Health and Housing and Local Government and the chairman of the organising committee, Datuk Dr Summoning Cashier; Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu; Samalaju assemblyman Datuk Majang Renggi; Saratok Assemblyman Friday Belik and Telang Usan assemblyman Dennis Ngau.
