Two Kenyah Lepo Abung Long Julan leaders appointed penghulu, ketua kaum

MIRI (March 23): Two Kenyah community leaders from Lepo Abung Long Julan were recently appointed as penghulu and ketua kaum, marking a new chapter in grassroots leadership for the area.

They are Penghulu Augustine Supen Taja who is appointed as the Penghulu for San area in Ulu Baram and ketua kaum Jacob Tugang of Kampung Long Julan Asal.

Following their appointments, a thanksgiving ceremony was held in Long Julan, Ulu Baram, last Saturday to express gratitude and appreciation for the recognition accorded to the two leaders.

The ceremony was officiated by Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring) Datuk Gerawat Gala.

In his address, Gerawat said that the appointment of a penghulu and ketua kaum was not merely an honour, but carried significant responsibility.

“Community leaders play a vital role as a bridge between the people and the government. They are not only responsible for maintaining harmony within the community, but also for helping to convey government policies and development initiatives at the grassroots level,” he said.

He stressed that close cooperation between community leaders, elected representatives and residents was essential to ensure development efforts could be implemented more effectively.

Gerawat, who is also Mulu assemblyman, called on residents of Long Julan and the surrounding areas to continue extending their support and cooperation to the newly appointed leaders so they could work together with the state government to bring greater progress to the village and future generations.

“I am confident that with their experience, commitment and leadership spirit, Penghulu Augustine Supen Taja and ketua kaum Jacob Tugang Taja will be able to carry out their duties well for the welfare and advancement of the community here,” he added.

Also present were Telang Usan assemblyman Datuk Dennis Ngau and Miri Resident Galong Luang.