Find how you can develop your areas, Bisaya people told

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Awang Tengah officiating at the dinner.

Awang Tengah officiating at the dinner.

KUCHING: The Bisaya people should find ways to develop their areas and not depend solely on the people’s representative or community leaders.

Second Planning Resources and Environment Minister Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hassan said this during a dinner organised by Kuching branch of Sarawak Bisaya Association.

“Those who have experience on how to help, and what to ask the government should do their part to contribute,” Awang Tengah suggested.

He urged the Bisaya people to maintain their identity and dignity and the younger generation especially not to forget their roots.

“In my experience, the Bisaya people are very focused on education – many of them have gone on to become doctors, lawyers and professionals in various fields. However, I wish to urge that you do not forget your roots.”

Awang Tengah said the government was committed to helping the Sarawak Bisaya Association and cited some examples.

“The government has provided RM1.5 million in funds to build and develop a Bisaya Cultural Centre in Batu Danau and approved a land rights letter for the Babulang Festival grounds, as well as a land approval letter to develop native customary rights (NCR) lands in Lembah Limbang.

“I want to urge the Sarawak Bisaya Association, Kuching branch to lend their undivided support to the association when it comes to organising activities in Sarawak,” he said.

He announced a RM30,000 grant for Sarawak Bisaya Association.

Guests at the dinner were treated to cultural Bisaya performances and entertained by a live band during the dinner.