GPS open to reviewing recognition of smaller longhouse chiefs, says Pakan rep

KUCHING (Feb 27): Pakan assemblyman Tan Sri William Mawan Ikom is confident that the state ruling coalition Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) will be accommodating in addressing issues surrounding the appointment and recognition of chiefs of 10-door longhouses in the state.

The Sarawak Dayak National Union (SDNU) president and advisor in the Sarawak Premier’s Office (Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development) said the matter was not new, particularly within the Iban community where longhouse administration plays a central role.

He pointed out that under existing guidelines, longhouses are generally required to meet a 20-door threshold before a tuai rumah (longhouse chief) can be formally recognised and vested with authority.

However, he noted that the state Cabinet had previously attempted to resolve the issue by creating some 500 additional tuai rumah posts across Sarawak after taking into account the magnitude of the problem.

“Over the years, hundreds of additional posts have been approved to address shortages in recognised leadership at the longhouse level.

“In some cases, chiefs were appointed even if they did not meet certain thresholds, reflecting the government’s flexibility in responding to community needs,” he said.

Mawan was responding to a request from the Sarikei Longhouse Chiefs Association during a courtesy call here.

The 26-member delegation was led by chairman Tuai Rumah Pitre Ambit Tayup and secretary Tuai Rumah Keli Angai, who were in Kuching to invite him to officiate at their upcoming event in Sarikei.

While acknowledging that there may be dissatisfaction among certain groups, Mawan expressed confidence that the state Cabinet under GPS would be open to reviewing legitimate concerns.

“As far as possible, the government will try to accommodate through whatever provisions and arrangements available.

“GPS has the means and experience to find solutions,” Mawan said.

He stressed that as a community leader, his role was to voice the concerns of the people rather than make executive decisions.

“We cannot just sit quietly. If the people speak to us, we must speak up on their behalf.

“That does not mean they are against the government. We want solutions,” he added, urging the public to continue engaging through proper channels.

Meanwhile, Keli called on the Sarawak government to formally recognise the heads of several 10-door longhouses in Sarikei by issuing official appointment letters or certificates.

He said formal recognition was crucial to enable longhouse heads to effectively carry out their duties, particularly in matters involving security, administration and development applications.

“Several smaller longhouses — including those with around 10 doors — were functioning without official documentation confirming their recognised leadership,” he explained.

As a result, village heads often faced difficulties in dealing with government agencies, applying for assistance, or seeking approvals for repairs and infrastructure upgrades.

“Without an appointment letter or certificate, it is hard for the tuai rumah to act officially on behalf of the residents,” he said, adding that proper recognition would strengthen governance at the grassroots level.

Pitre also proposed that once formally recognised, 10-door longhouse chiefs be given a monthly token allowance of about RM200 or more to enable them to carry out their responsibilities effectively.

He expressed hope that the state authorities would look into the matter to ensure that legitimate longhouse leaders are formally acknowledged, enabling them to better serve their communities and safeguard the welfare of residents.