Veterinary dept withdraws ‘Kumang’, ‘Keling’ livestock references following Iban community concerns

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By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Oct 3: The Sarawak Veterinary Services Department (DVSS) has directed that the terms ‘Kumang’ and ‘Keling’ no longer be used in livestock promotional materials following concerns from the Iban community over their use in Sarawak Agrofest promotions.

In a statement posted on the department’s Facebook, DVSS director Datu Dr Adrian Susin Ambud said the department took full responsibility for the use of the two names, which hold significant legendary, dignity, heritage, and cultural identity value for the Iban community.

“DVSS has directed that the use of the names ‘Kumang’ and ‘Keling’ be stopped immediately for promotional purposes involving the livestock concerned.

“All related digital and physical promotional materials will be removed, withdrawn and corrected,” he said.

He added that the department had also contacted the livestock breeders to coordinate on the matter, adding that DVSS once again apologised for the insensitivity.

“This insensitivity is a shared responsibility that needs to be addressed openly without pointing fingers at any particular party,” he said.

He also said that the incident occurred without any intention to belittle or offend any party and acknowledged the department’s weaknesses in its process for screening local cultural sensitivities when preparing promotional materials.

As a follow-up measure, he said the department would tighten its screening processes and promotional guidelines to ensure the cultural values, customs, and heritage of all communities in Sarawak continue to be respected.

According to TVS, the controversy earlier went viral on social media after two cattle displayed at the Sarawak Agrofest (SAF) 2026 at the former Bintulu Airport site were named ‘Kumang Agrofest 2025’ and ‘Keling Agrofest 2026’, prompting criticism from members of the Iban community. — DayakDaily

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