Work to preserve identity, Lo urges Asadia

KUCHING: The Academy of Sarawak Dayak Iban (Asadia) has been urged to continue to fight for and pass on the uniqueness of Dayak art and culture to the next generation.

“I also believe the skills acquired from Asadia can be marketed as tourism and business products,” said Batu Kitang assemblyman Datuk Lo Khere Chiang.

“For example, the liveliness and uniqueness of dance and music such as tabuh, sape, belikan and so on can attract tourists from abroad.

“The same goes for skills in the field of decorative arts and handicrafts.”

He said this in his speech while representing Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas during the Asadia graduation dinner at the Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) Hall here on Saturday (Dec 2).

“Indirectly, what Asadia is doing can maintain the Dayak identity … this is very good for fostering the spirit of unity and creating a harmonious atmosphere among the Sarawakian community,” he added.

“We must avoid division, the spirit of unity must be strengthened. We need to be united to safeguard the prosperity of this beloved state of Sarawak.

“Therefore, I call on all those present tonight, whether old or young, let us join hands to defend the harmony, prosperity and well-being of Sarawak,” he said.

Lo also announced that Uggah will allocate a grant of RM30,000 to Asadia next year for programmes under the academy.