City Bidayuhs must stay engage in socio-economic development, preserve culture, says DBNA president

MIRI (Nov 30): Bidayuh communities who have settled in cities far from their hometowns must remain engaged in local socio-economic development while continuing to promote their culture and traditional attire, said Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) president Datuk Ik Pahon Joyik.

He said that although many Bidayuhs have migrated from their villages to major urban centres, it is important for them to preserve and showcase their ethnic identity to the wider public.

“When you choose to settle in this city (Miri), there are three things I would like to remind you of, promote Bidayuh culture, our traditional attire, and maintain unity and cooperation within the Bidayuh community,” he said at the DBNA Miri branch annual dinner on Saturday.

He was representing Sarawak Deputy Minister of Food Industry, Commodity, and Regional Development, Datuk Martin Ben.

Ik Pahon also reminded the community that as a minority group in the city, they should work closely with government agencies to ensure they do not fall behind in policy implementation or access to support.

“I am proud of DBNA Miri, which is one of the most active branches in Sarawak and consistently collaborate with various government agencies by participating in activities at the district, divisional and state levels.

“I also hope that DBNA Miri continues focusing on education by strengthening ties with Curtin University Malaysia, to organise educational programmes that can benefit and enhance the academic achievements of Bidayuh youth,” he said.

He further urged the branch to stay active in contributing to the socio-economic advancement of the Bidayuh community in Miri, including through cooperation with other non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to ensure the community continues to progress alongside other ethnic groups in the state.

At the dinner, Ik Pahon also announced an allocation of RM10,000 from Martin Ben to support DBNA Miri’s activities.

The event also featured the presentation of educational awards to outstanding students and Lifetime Membership Awards.

Also present was DBNA Miri chairman Simon Ilus.