KUCHING: It is important to cherish the contributions of prominent Iban leader Tun Datuk Patinggi Temenggong Jugah Barieng, particularly in uniting Sarawak’s bumiputeras and in the formation of Malaysia.
In stating this, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said it is a collective responsibility to preserve what Jugah had begun by giving meaning to a free and sovereign nation.
“This aligns with the government’s aspiration to foster a Madani Malaysian society, one that is respectful, celebrates diversity, and serves as a platform for civilisational dialogue, filled with kindness and mutual support to ensure a peaceful, conflict-free society,” he said.
He said this in his speech read by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas at the ‘Mengenang Negarawan Tun Datuk Patinggi Temenggung Jugah Barieng Negarawan Terbilang’ programme held at the Dayak Cultural Foundation (DCF) here on Monday (Sept 9).
Reflecting on the events that led to the efforts of forming Malaysia, Abang Johari said no one can deny the crucial role, contributions, and efforts made by Jugah.
“His success in gathering 51 Iban community leaders and the Kapit chiefs to reach a consensus to join Malaya, North Borneo (Sabah), and Singapore in the formation of the Malaysia concept on Feb 15, 1962 marked a turning point for Sarawak’s agreement to merge with the Federation of Malaya in the establishment of Malaysia.
“Jugah was also involved with the Malaysian Consultative Committee on Unity and the Inter-Governmental Committee to discuss and prepare reports on several conditions and rights of Sarawak’s people before the formation of Malaysia,” he said.
He added that the Federal Constitution of Malaysia was one of the outcomes of negotiations through the Malaysian Consultative Committee on Unity and the Cobbold Commission.
“Jugah was also one of Sarawak’s representatives who signed the Malaysia Agreement in London on July 9, 1963, along with other representatives from Sarawak such as Philip Ernest Housden (P.E.H.) Pike, Abang Haji Mustapha, Ling Beng Siew and Tun Abang Openg.
“After the formation of Malaysia, Jugah was entrusted with the position of Minister for Sarawak Affairs, which he held from 1963 to 1974.
“Throughout his tenure, Jugah acted as a bridge between the federal and state governments to bring progress to Sarawak,” he said.
Abang Johari added one of the most admired qualities of Jugah was his sharp intellect and realistic views, despite not coming from a highly educated family.
“His leadership talent was evident during the Kapit Peace Agreement on Nov 16, 1924. Jugah played a role in mediating the conflicts and frequent battles between the Iban and Kayan people.
“The Peace Agreement between these warring factions was held at Kapit Fort and witnessed by Rajah Charles Vyner Brooke. This event marked the beginning of Jugah’s leadership history, as he was appointed as Penghulu for the Merirai and Balleh regions on Jan 1, 1928,” he said.
He added that during the Japanese occupation, Jugah fully supported the Australian forces in driving the Japanese out of Sarawak and his actions made it difficult for the Japanese to gain cooperation from the people of Sarawak, and they had to face resistance from the local population, eventually leading to Japan’s defeat.
“On April 24, 1952, Jugah was appointed as a member of the State Legislative Council in recognition of his courage and service in resisting the Japanese forces and his influence within the Iban community.
“Jugah was also chosen by Sir Anthony Foster Abell, the British Governor of Sarawak, to represent the indigenous people and other ethnic groups in Sarawak at the coronation ceremony of Queen Elizabeth II in London in 1953.
“This achievement and recognition were of great significance to the people of Sarawak, particularly the Iban community, as Jugah became the first Iban to visit England as an honour from the British government,” said Abang Johari.
The programme was organised by the Ministry of National Unity and the National Archives of Malaysia.
ends
