KUCHING: The Dayaks of Sarawak manage alcohol in the right spirit despite the general perception the community indulges in its abuse.
Thus, alcohol abuse is longer a serious problem among the Dayaks in the state, notes Assistant Minister of Public Health Datuk Dr Jerip Susil.
He said although sale and consumption of home-brewed alcohol, locally known as ‘langkau’ was not a serious problem in Sarawak, there was still the need to control its production, sale and consumption in the community.
According to Dr Jerip, there is a drinking culture and it is very much part and parcel of Dayak celebrations.
“We can’t tell the people to stop drinking completely, but awareness of responsible drinking has to be improved,” he told Bernama in a recent interview.
The medical doctor said production and sale of ‘langkau’ had reduced tremendously as compared to previously.
From his observation, the Bengoh state assemblyman said fewer people among the new generation consumed ‘langkau’ as they preferred better brand of liquor and beer.
“As the new generation earns better income and can afford better branded liquor and beer, why would they opt for ‘langkau’ anymore?,” asked Jerip.
Dr Jerip felt the authorities should not deny people’s right to an income (producing and selling langkau) but said rules like banning minors from buying and drinking should be fully enforced.
“I understand that in villages and longhouses, there are bound to be few producing langkau and tuak (rice wine) as their source of income.
“Fair enough, but they must realise they could end up contributing to underage drinking.”
Hence, he said there should be a comprehensive study to gather information and statistics on the number of people involved in producing ‘langkau’ in the villages and longhouses, and on the number of people consuming it.
“With the database, the government can plan how it could assist ‘langkau’ producers to stop their production and opt for other income-generating economic activities,” he added. — Bernama