NGOs key to unity, inclusive development, says Yap

KUCHING (Jan 1): Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) play a vital role in promoting unity and harmony in Sarawak’s multi-ethnic society and should continue to be supported as key partners in the state’s development journey, said Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap.

The Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Kota Sentosa branch chairman said NGOs and cultural organisations serve as important platforms for fostering mutual understanding by bringing people together regardless of religion, ethnicity or political affiliation.

“As the people’s elected representative, I believe we must assist NGOs because they play a very important role in promoting unity. Unity must be led by example,” he said, citing community events that celebrate culture while welcoming participation from all walks of life.

Yap was speaking during a minor rural project (MRP) fund presentation to the Sarawak Dayak National Union (SDNU) Kota Sentosa branch here on Tuesday, where a cheque of RM3,000 was presented to support the branch’s programmes.

He noted that Sarawak’s strength lies in its ‘unity in diversity’, pointing out that constituencies such as Kota Sentosa are home to a wide range of NGOs representing different cultures, dialects and communities, all sharing a common goal of social harmony and progress.

He said this strong foundation of unity and inclusivity is closely linked to Sarawak’s Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030, which emphasises economic prosperity, social inclusivity and sustainability.

“Without inclusivity, you cannot achieve economic prosperity, and without prosperity, it is difficult to talk about sustainable development,” he said, adding that unity remains the starting point for long-term growth and stability.

According to him, Sarawak’s strong social cohesion over the past decade has enabled the state leadership to focus on substantive development policies rather than being distracted by divisive religious or racial issues.

He encouraged NGOs to remain focused on their core objectives and continue playing their respective roles, whether in promoting culture, preserving language or encouraging education within their communities.

Using cultural- and dialect-based associations as examples, Yap stressed that language and cultural preservation are essential for maintaining identity, especially as younger generations increasingly shift towards dominant languages.

“NGOs have a responsibility to promote culture, education and knowledge sharing within their communities. Language, in particular, is a powerful tool of identity,” he said.

Yap also commended SDNU’s long-standing role in advocating unity, safeguarding welfare and empowering the Dayak community.

He expressed support for the union’s 37th triennial general assembly (TGA), which brought together delegates and community leaders to deliberate on key issues affecting the Dayak community and Sarawak’s future development.

He was among the distinguished guests at the TGA welcoming dinner graced by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg on Nov 14.

“The TGA reaffirmed the spirit of ‘unity in diversity, which continues to be a defining strength of Sarawak’s harmonious and inclusive society,” he said.

“I hope SDNU will further enhance its roles by strengthening its capacity as a platform for constructive engagement on social, economic and development issues, nurturing future Dayak leaders, and contributing meaningfully to policy discussions that support inclusive growth and long-term stability in Sarawak,” he added.

Yap said organisations such as SDNU play an important role in shaping positive socio-political impact by fostering dialogue, cooperation and mutual understanding among communities, contributing to a united, progressive and resilient Sarawak in the years ahead.