PBSM relevant for promoting Bisaya culture, welfare in Miri

MIRI (Dec 8): The Sarawak Bisaya Association Miri (PBSM) remains relevant for promoting the community’s culture and welfare, said Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom.

He said this is due to the dedication and sacrifices of past and present leaders who have steered the association tireless over the past 36 years.

“In conjunction with our annual dinner tonight, we must acknowledge the efforts of past and current leaders who have ensured this branch remains relevant, competitive and beneficial, not only to its members but also the wider Miri community,” he said at the PBSM ‘Majlis Makan Malam Untu Taun’ here on Saturday.

His text of speech was delivered by Batu Danau assemblyman Dato Paulus Palu Gumbang.

Dr Rundi said the association’s 36-year journey reflected not only its struggles and history, but also the sacrifices and achievements of its members.

He noted that over the past three decades, members of the Miri branch played active roles in various activities and programmes, including the Miri City Day celebration, Taste of Borneo Festival, Gawai celebrations, Yang di-Pertua Negeri birthday parade, and other local festivities.

“I was also made to understand that your branch without fail continues to participate in and support the Babulang Festival and buffalo race in Limbang since 2004.

“I’ve had the opportunity to attend the event myself, and I was truly impressed by the performances and reception,” he said.

Meanwhile, PBSM chairman Datu Antonio Kahti Galis said the Miri branch is one of 20 Bisaya association branches in Sarawak.

He also thanked the government for its continued support in providing allocations that enable the association to carry out its programmes.

During the event, Dr Rundi announced a minor rural project (MRP) grant of RM10,000 for PBSM, while Telang Usan assemblyman Dato Dennis Ngau contributed RM5,000.

In addition, six students received incentives from the association for outstanding academic achievements, including one student who graduated with a Master in Laws from the University of the West of England Bristol.

Also present were Sarawak Bisaya Association president Datuk Joseph Blandoi and the event’s organising chairman Dionysius Richard Ellai.