KUCHING: Other than being concerned about their socio-political unity, the Dayaks have been urged to use all their hearts, minds and strength to also think about their economic future and the future education of their community.
A political observer Datuk Peter Minos said they cannot be indifferent because the future of Sarawak directly affects them and other Sarawakians. If they go on as usual without really making some efforts to change their situations they could be swept away or aside by events that they could have prevented, avoided or mitigated.
Speaking of events, he pointed out that the Dayaks, like all communities in Sarawak, are now facing a trying time due to some economic uncertainty.
The cost of living is high and rising, and income is stagnant, which is the more reason for Dayaks to mull over their future and the future of Sarawak itself.
“Of immediate concern is how the Dayaks are going to deal with their rather difficult economic situations. It is here that new ideas and initiatives in modern agriculture could play a big role,” said Minos who is also the Walikota of Kota Samarahan Municipal Council and chairman of Bung Bratak Heritage Association.
He believes that the more educated Dayaks with some money or better access to capital must lead the way, with or without government assistance.
“For example, in the last 20 years or so, a few enterprising young and educated Dayaks have actually ventured into the oil palm sector and that is most commendable. The next move is of course into other types of ventures,” he said, adding that Dayaks must think of their economic emancipation and involvement and focus on it.
“This is a given and self-evident of course, but there is some confusion here and not just among the Dayaks. In fact, all ethnic groups in Sarawak are in similar situations of their own,” he said.
Also, of lingering concern to them is, of course, their unity as a community as well as the unity of all Sarawakians.
“And Gawai is one of the right times to give a thought to all these – things that are of big concern and of great interest to Sarawak and its future.
“This leads to the other important issue and a question. Must Sarawakians – Dayaks included, of course – have the sole right and prerogative in determining their very own fate and future?
“This cannot and must not, now or in the future, be delegated to others. Only Sarawakians know the true history of Sarawak and have proper appreciation of it,” he said.
Thus, it is vital that the Dayaks, together with all other Sarawakians, to be united in the defence and promotion of the state’s interests.
