Sarawak joins Malaysian delegation to engage with Canada’s indigenous communities

By DayakDaily Team

CANADA, July 12: Sarawak recently joined a delegation from Malaysia to engage with the indigenous communities in Canada.

The Sarawak delegation was led by the Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department, Dato Sri John Sikie Tayai; and joined by Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Law, MA63 and State-Federal Relations) Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali; Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Native Laws and Customs) Datuk Jefferson Jamit Unyat; Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring) Datuk Gerawat Gala; Murum assemblyman Kennedy Chukpai Ugon; Deputy Sarawak Secretary (Administration) Datu Buckland Bangik; and several community leaders representing the Iban, Bidayuh, and Orang Ulu communities.

According to a report by Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas), the engagement visit hosted by the Tyedinaga Mohawk Council was aimed at learning more about preserving, promoting as well as documenting native cultures, customs, and traditions for future generations in addition to exchanging views between both sides.

The meeting between both sides presented a valuable opportunity to foster mutual understanding and enhance cultural exchange, as well as exchange information and views concerning the indigenous communities.

The Malaysian delegation was also interested in learning about the Tontakayè:ri’ne Restorative Justice and Gladue Services, which are alternatives for youth involved in the justice system.

The programme brings together victims, offenders, and families or advocates in a safe environment to discuss the offence and its effects and then jointly decide on the best way to address the matter. — DayakDaily