Manyin (seated fifth left) posing with the players and committee members.
KUCHING: Bidayuhs must discard their inferiority complex to become more successful, opined Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) advisor Dato Sri Michael Manyin Jawong.
Ideally, Bidayuhs should imitate the Americans in terms of thinking big and having the ‘go get em’ attitude.
“We (Bidayuhs) must stop being timid. We must also discard the inferiority complex altogether because we need to change in order to improve ourselves (community),” he said at the prize presentation ceremony of the 10th World Bidayuh Golf Championship at Kelab Golf Sarawak (KGS) yesterday.
“We must possess elements of superiority complex.” Manyin, who is Minister of Infrastructure Development and Communication, said he believed the present demeanour of the Bidayuhs was due to the fact that they were basically rural-based in the past.
“The present situation has changed. Our needs and aspiration has increased, and for this we must change.”
Tebedu assemblyman Manyin also said the Bidayuh community must have a sense of inclusiveness in helping each other and not to solely rely on politicians for assistance.
Turning to those living in other divisions and abroad, he said those who had made it in life should contribute to their village and birthplace, and not to forget their roots.
They should also help DBNA turn its headquarters into a Bed and Breakfast (B&B) complex. This project is estimated at RM11 million.
Another project worth supporting is the compilation of a book that will depict the past, present and future journeys of the community.
Work on the book was scheduled to start next September, he said, adding the matter was discussed during a meeting between DBNA and Bidayuh Graduates Association (BGA).
On golf, Manyin said he was glad to note the increasing number of golfers among the community, and pledged his continuous support.
Earlier, DBNA president Datu Ik Pahon Joyik said the tournament served as a good platform for the community to mingle and make friends.
He thanked Manyin for being the main sponsor of the tournament for the past 10 years, adding Bidayuh elected representatives had also chipped in.