MIRI: As a small community in the state, the Kayan must continue to be united and provide the state and federal governments with their undivided support in order to move forward.
Kayan Sarawak Association president Dennis Ngau said there are about 100,000 Kayans out of the 33 million Malaysians nationwide.
“Therefore, we need to walk side by side with the current federal and state governments to be on par with the rest in terms of development,” he said at the Peng Lamei Ledoh Pahu Kayan ceremony here last night.
According to him, the event’s theme, “Pehugun Pepayak Pepju,” reflects their aspirations to improve Kayans’ socio-economics through unity and education.
He added that the Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has always reminded the community to prioritise education because it is the best way to advance oneself.
“We were taking his advice as we believed that education is the window for many opportunities.
“In this regard, the association has made several efforts by organising seminars and educational workshops for our children and being supportive in ensuring their success in their studies,” he added.
With seven branches located around the state, including Kuching, Miri, Marudi, Bintulu, Sungai Asap, Belaga, and Nahah A, the Kayan Sarawak Association currently has more than 3,000 members.
“The association has become a voice for the Kayan people in seeking opportunities from our government, and we will continue to strive in the future,” said Dennis, who is also the Telang Usan assemblyman.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof presided over the ceremony.
Also present were federal Deputy Health Minister Lukanisman Awang Sauni, Minister of Transport Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin, Deputy Minister of Women, Early Childhood, and Community Development I (Women and Childhood Development) Datuk Rosey Yunus, Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration, and Project Monitoring) Datuk Gerawat Gala, Stakan assemblyman Datuk Hamzah Ibrahim, and Temenggong Elizabeth Ding.
