KUCHING: Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu has voiced his support for adopting the term “Dayak” to represent the indigenous peoples of Borneo.
The Deputy Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister said he agrees with the recent statement by Sabah Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan proposing the use of “Dayak” as a more fitting term for the natives of Borneo.
“I have read the statement recently, and he said that people of Borneo (the natives) should be called Dayak. Why not? If it’s something good, please support it.
“Do you agree with me? Why, because if we are together we are united and we can be a big force and help each other grow,” he said.
He said this in his speech during the Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association (KDCA) Sarawak Kaamatan Festival 2024 celebration at Pullman Hotel here last night (May 4).
He said the people of Sarawak and Sabah should keep the Borneo spirit alive to ensure that both states can be an economic force.
“We can be an identity, and we can be something that loves each other, to grow and to live together.
“We can and accept any challenge, if you touch any Sarawakian, I hope the Sabahan will help us. If the Sabahan needs us, we will help them first,” he added.
He also noted that the spirit of unity and togetherness is an important value to be held by the people.
“Please do not let any element destroy our social fabric and unity of all those races in Borneo. If we can do it, we will protect. If you touch one, you touch all. We feel it too,” said Rentap.
Among those present were Batu Kitang assemblyman Datuk Lo Khere Chiang, Serembu assemblyman Miro Simuh and Lubok Antu MP Roy Angau Gingkoi.
