Uggah urges Dayak NGOs to partner with govt for community progress

KUCHING: Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas has called on Dayak non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to collaborate with the government in advancing the community’s progress and prosperity.

“We have many NGOs now and we certainly need their collaboration to reach out to the various sectors of our community.

“As Sarawak continues to develop and prosper, particularly through its Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, our people should all benefit.”

Uggah made these remarks while welcoming a delegation from the Dayak National Congress (DNC), led by its president Richard Lias, at his office, today (Aug 1).

He emphasised that despite Sarawak being declared a high-income region by the World Bank, there are still individuals who require assistance to generate a stable income independently.

“This is where NGOs could play their roles in explaining to the people the many government policies and programs aimed at generating income.

“We must play our part in informing and educating them. We also want them to keep abreast of the progress we are making. We are, after all, an inclusive government.”

Uggah suggested that NGOs could collaborate with government departments and agencies in implementing these programs.

He also highlighted the importance of coordination between NGOs and government agencies, particularly in disaster response, to avoid duplication of efforts. “Then we can make the best use of our resources.”

During the visit, Richard informed Uggah about the upcoming celebration of the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples 2024, hosted by the DNC in Kuching from Aug 9 to 10. He extended an invitation to Uggah to attend the event.

“We greatly welcome any opportunity to work with the government for the betterment of our community in the true spirit of Segulai Sejalai,” Richard said.

The celebration will include a forum and a cultural dinner. Richard noted that the event would be attended by three international and 26 local Dayak NGOs, along with five from Sabah and 17 from Indonesia.

Among the distinguished guests expected is Sabah Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffery Gapari Kitingan.