KUCHING: Indigenous people in Sabah and Sarawak can count their blessings because their status as ‘Natives’ is enshrined in the Malaysian Federal Constitution.
In stating this a Sarawak Dayak Iban Association (Sadia) representative who attended a UN forum on indigenous peoples’ issues in New York last month said the meeting was an excellent channel through which indigenous peoples of many countries come together as a marginalised group.
“I have a lot to learn from discussing relevant issues with the delegates from other countries,” Tuai Rumah Ruekeith Jampong from Engkilili said in a statement.
“You will be surprised to know that there are indigenous peoples who are not recognised as such by their own countries,”he added.
The annual forum held from April 15-26, was attended by 2,000 leaders of indigenous peoples from Africa, the Arctic Region, Asia, Central and South America, the Caribbean, Central and Eastern Europe, the Russian Federation, Central Asia, Transcaucasia, North America, and the Pacific.
Ruekeith said Sadia’s presentations highlighted issues such as indigenous peoples’ right to lands, territories, and resources, the recognition of their identity and their meaningful participation in decision making.
“In particular, issues which directly impact their well-being, such as the implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) at the national and international levels with practical outcomes, and actions in addressing climate change and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations,” he said.
During the discussion on “The survival of Indigenous Peoples’ Languages – How to bridge the digital divide,” Ruekeith stressed the importance of preserving the teaching and learning of the Iban language and the urgent need for more teachers of that language.
During his trip, he also met with Malaysia’s former Chief Justice, who serves as an ombudsman to the United Nations Security Council, Richard Malanjum, as well as Jenifer Lasimbang of Sabah, and the two daughters of the late Dr. Patau Rubis, June and Jennifer Rubis.
In another development Sadia announced its participation in the upcoming State Gawai Dayak 2024 celebrations.
“The event promises a vibrant showcase of Dayak culture, traditions, and community spirit, and Sadia is honoured to be a part of it,” said its president Sidi Munan.
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“State Gawai Dayak 2024, a cherished cultural festival, holds immense significance for the Dayak community, serving as a platform to celebrate unity, heritage, and the rich tapestry of Dayak traditions,”he said.
“This festival not only strengthens our bonds as a community but also provides a platform to showcase the richness of Dayak culture to a wider audience, “said Sidi.
For more information about Sadia’s participation in State Gawai Dayak 2024 and its ongoing initiatives to promote Dayak arts and culture, contact: Victoria (0142883688), Anthony Williams (0178571580), and Mabong Unggang (0126925562).
