Special task force to address Penan issues

MIRI: The Sarawak government has reiterated its commitment to the Penan community, reaffirming that it will continue to ensure their inclusion in the state’s development agenda.

Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, said the state’s policies have always focused on inclusivity.

Towards this end he announced plans to establish a special task force at the state level to address key issues affecting the Penan community.

“The Penan community will not be left behind. We have implemented inclusive policies, including those aimed at their development.

“A special task force will soon be formed to engage with the Penan community and address their concerns.”

Abang Johari made the announcement during a ceremony to receive memoranda on the development of the Penan community here.

A total of 13 memoranda were handed over by the Penan community from northern Sarawak during the event.

The documents, representing various issues and requests from the community, were submitted by Pemanca Hennesser Uning Bong.

In his address, Abang Johari expressed the government’s readiness to collaborate with the Penan community leaders, acknowledging their crucial role in voicing the needs of their people.

He also addressed the distinction between genuine community-driven efforts and initiatives led by certain non-governmental organisations (NGOs), which he suggested may not always reflect the broader interests of the community.

“Community leaders are essential in understanding the needs of the Penan people, and they have my full support. While NGOs play a role, it is the leaders of the Penan community who best represent their interests,” he explained.

Abang Johari recalled his personal experiences with the Penan community, mentioning his time spent helping families in Long Jekitan.

He reflected on his connection to the Penan people over the decades, proudly noting the success stories of Penan youths, including one who became a resident in Kapit.

“This is a clear reflection of the success of our efforts. Our inclusive policies under the Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 ensure that every community, including the Penan, benefits from the state’s growth,” he said.

In addition to development programmes, Abang Johari highlighted the government’s long-term educational goals for the Penan people.

By 2026, he pledged to offer free university education to all eligible Penan students, ensuring that future generations could access opportunities in advanced fields such as aerospace.

Looking ahead, the Premier also discussed upcoming infrastructure projects in northern Sarawak, including a new port in Kuala Baram and road expansions that will connect Marudi to Long Terawan and other Penan settlements.

He stressed that these projects will create jobs and enhance the livelihoods of the Penan and other communities in the region.

“We are building roads to reach rural villages and longhouses, improving access and creating opportunities. These efforts are not just for convenience but to ensure that every citizen can benefit from Sarawak’s development,” he said.

Abang Johari also spoke about future energy initiatives, including the construction of cascading dams using advanced technology to generate electricity without disrupting local land or displacing people.

“I understand there are concerns, but I want to assure everyone that these projects will not affect anyone’s land. It’s about harnessing our natural resources responsibly for the benefit of future generations,” he said.

Also present at the event were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration, and Project Monitoring) Datuk Gerawat Gala, Baram MP Dato Anyi Ngau, and Telang Usan assemblyman Dato Dennis Ngau.