Sarawak’s 34 tribes hold unique histories, must be safeguarded for future generations — Minister

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Aug 10: Sarawak’s 34 gazetted tribes, each with its own unique history and cultural values, must be safeguarded for future generations, urges Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts, Datuk Snowdan Lawan.

According to a Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) news report, Snowdan said the identity of these tribes must be introduced, preserved, and promoted, particularly among the younger generation, to prevent them from being lost in the tide of modernity.

“Sometimes these young people are too busy with technology and so on that they forget about the tribes in this state. That is why it is our duty to ensure these tribes continue because this is our identity, the identity of Sarawak,” he said during the Ngarom Bisamah Ceremony of the Segu Bunuk Penrissen Association (PSBP) 2025 at the DBNA Multipurpose Hall here yesterday (Aug 9).

Snowdan noted that cultural heritage is an integral part of the State’s identity and serves as a key draw for tourists.

“When tourists come to Sarawak, the first thing they want to see is our tribes because we are unique, with traditional clothing and diverse cultures. This is what makes us special in the eyes of the world,” he said.

He called on Sarawakians abroad to proudly carry their cultural identity.

“If the child is Bidayuh, make sure they bring Bidayuh clothing. If you are Iban, bring Iban clothing. If you are Orang Ulu, bring what symbolises your tribe,” he added.

Snowdan also announced RM20,000 in funding for PSBP to support cultural preservation initiatives.

Meanwhile, Puncak Borneo MP and PSBP Patron, Datuk Willie Mongin, in his speech, called for inter-association collaboration to strengthen unity.

“I don’t want to see our association have the spirit of ‘hangat hangat tahi ayam’… we must continue to move together and help each other,” he said.

He also revealed that efforts are underway to identify a site for the planned Segu Bunuk Cultural Centre following the allocation approved by Deputy Minister of Transport and Mambong assemblyman, Datuk Dr Jerip Susil. — DayakDaily

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