KUCHING: Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek will visit Olympic medallist Pandelela Rinong
Pamg at Kampung Jugan, Bau on Aug 27.
According to the Chairman of Bung Bratak Heritage Association (PERWARIBB) Dato Peter Minos, Shabery’s visit is one of the four major functions Pandelela will be attending when she steps on Sarawak soil for the first time after the London Olympic on Aug 21.
Bringing the pride of ‘Jalur Gemilang’ that she carried during the opening ceremony of the Olympics, Pandelela upon returning home will first meet Chief Minister Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud who is anticipated to announce the special gift promised to her.
On Aug 22, Pandelela will be the guest of honour of the DBNA dinner held at the association’s multi-purpose hall at Jalan Kumpang, Off Jalan Ong Tiang Swee here.
And yesterday, Minos informed that PERWARIBB will be arranging an appreciation dinner for Pandelela who is from a village under the association on Aug 25.
Minos also disclosed that at the function, Pandelela will be accorded with the title ‘Perwinita Bung Bratak’, the title-bestowed on the exemplary personality originated from the clan, and she would also be given cash.
“Pandelela deserves to be rewarded handsomely for her 10 years’ hard work and sacrifices as well as bringing pride and honour for the nation and state,” added Minos who is from Kampung Stenggang, Bau.
He also revealed that the recipient of the National Bravery Award (PGB) Paul Nyopis from Kampung Opar Bau will be presenting Pandelela with the award.
The PERWARIBB chairman also revealed about 1000 guests from nearby villages will be invited to the dinner held at Dewan Suarah Bau.
“The Bung Bratak clan comprises 38 Bidayuh villages including five in Kalimantan Barat, Indonesia with total population of about 30,000,” he informed. Minos, who is also one of Universiti Malaysia Sarawak board of director, added that he is ready to help Pandelela if she wishes to study at Unimas.