SIBU: The Iban community has always held a unique place in the tapestry of our country, said Dewan Rakyat Deputy Speaker Alice Lau.
She said the community possesses an invaluable cultural heritage, a profound connection to the environment, and a rich history that predates the establishment of modern democratic systems.
Lau, who is Lanang MP, stressed that elected representatives therefore bear a significant responsibility to ensure the Iban community is not left behind in the country’s democratic journey.
“We must recognise that the sustainability of these communities is not only a moral imperative but also crucial for the diversity, resilience and overall health of our society,” she said.
She said this in a speech read by her private secretary Stanley Chiew at the Sustainability of Indigenous People in a Democratic System Forum organised by the Sarawak Dayak Iban Association (SADIA) here Saturday (Nov 4).
Lau added that in a democratic system, inclusivity and respect for the rights of all citizens are paramount and the principle should extend to the indigenous community.
“We must work to protect their native lands, preserve their cultures, and provide equitable access to essential services such as healthcare, education and economic opportunities,” she said.
Lau said to achieve the goals, there is a need to engage in meaningful dialogue, collaborate with indigenous leaders, and develop policies that respect and incorporate their traditional knowledge and values.
It will require a commitment to understanding their unique needs and the challenges they face.
“Let this forum be a stepping stone toward a future where the sustainability of indigenous people is not a goal, but a reality, where their rights are recognised, their cultures celebrated, and their well-being secured.
“I want to emphasise that, as members of parliament, we have a duty to champion the rights of indigenous communities within our democratic system.
“Let us stand together in unity, across politics, to create a better and more equitable nation for all,” she said.
Also present were SADIA President Sidi Munan.
