Taib taking a closer look at the memento in the form of a traditional oar called ‘plar’ presented to him by Aidan (left) while Ragad and Leo look on. — Photo by Muhammad Rais Sanusi
KUCHING: The Melanau community has made significant contributions to the development and progress of Sarawak despite being a minority group in the state.
In pointing this out, Chief Minister Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud said the Melanaus, together with other communities in the state, have helped in improving the state’s economy which saw its capita per income increase 10-fold compared to 30 years ago.
“Over the years, the Melanau community has worked hard towards improving their livelihood as well as in achieving the same status as the other races.
“They have also learned to come together to make the best in contributing towards the state’s development and this is the spirit that should be applauded,” he said at the Kuching Melanau Association (PMK) Appreciation Dinner held at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on Sunday.
“Today, the Melanau community is no longer afraid to compete with the other races and are also capable of working closely with them.
“This is the strength and spirit that has played a part in our state’s progress and economy,” Taib said.
Meanwhile, PMK president Datuk Aidan Wing pledged full and undivided support to Taib on behalf of the Melanau community.
“You can be assured of our strong support and you can count on us to protect Sarawak democratically from being invaded by undesirable elements.
“We want Sarawak to be a model state though we are so diverse, yet we are able to stay together under one roof peacefully and lovingly,” he said in his speech.
Among those present at the dinner were Taib’s wife Puan Sri Ragad Kurdi Taib, Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Alfred Jabu Numpang, State Secretary Tan Sri Datuk Amar Morshidi Abdul Ghani, Assistant Minister of Environment Datu Len Talif Salleh and Federation of Sarawak Melanau Association (PPMS) president Datuk Seri Dr Muhammad Leo Michael Toyad.