Manyin (left) looks on as Adenan presents a land title to one of the recipients. — Photo by Chimon Upon
SERIAN: The Bidayuh community should give their fullest support to Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem for what he has done for them since he took over the helm of the state 15 months ago.
Infrastructure Development and Communications Minister Dato Sri Michael Manyin Jawong, who made this call, said despite the short period in office Adenan had brought numerous changes to the state, and the Bidayuh community was not an exception.
He added among the significant changes was the elevation of Serian District into a division, which he said would surely bring lots of benefit not only to the people in Serian but the state as a whole.
Manyin made these remarks in his speech at the presentation of land titles to 399 native customary rights (NCR) landowners from five villages, which was graced by Adenan.
On a related matter, Manyin, who is Tebedu assemblyman, said he would like to see all the present six Bidayuh state seats to be retained by BN to enable the chief minister to lead the state for at least another term.
Presently, state constituencies which are predominantly Bidayuh are Opar, Tasik Biru, Bengoh, Tarat, Tebedu and Kedup.
Of the seats, three are represented by PBB, two by SUPP and the other by SPDP.
However, following political developments in the state, SUPP seats (Opar and Bengoh) are now represented by UPP assemblymen while the SPDP seat of Tasik Biru is now under Teras – breakaway parties of SUPP and SPDP respectively.
Manyin advised Bidayuh voters not to look at the personality of the candidates as long as they represent BN.
“We want Bidayuhs in Serian, Padawan, Penrissen, Bau and Lundu to give their fresh mandate to the Chief Minister so that he can continue to lead.
“Of course we want BN to win all seats so that he can speak louder for the state and with more confidence,” he said.
Among those present at the ceremony yesterday were State Legislative Assembly Deputy Speaker Datuk Roland Sagah Wee Inn, Kedup assemblyman Martin Ben, Balai Ringin assemblyman Snowdan Lawan and Land and Survey officers.