The guests join the longhouse folk for lunch.
SIBU: Those born long after Aug 31, 1957 – especially the youngsters – must be thoroughly and constantly reminded about the struggles of their forefathers in attaining independence for the country.
Assistant Minister of Native Laws and Customs Datuk John Sikie Tayai also believed that today’s youths must be taught the true history of Malaysia, particularly on how the country was first formed as a federation.
“The younger generation must know the true historical facts, especially on the struggles of the previous generations in gaining independence for Sarawak,” he spoke to about 450 people attending the ‘Igniting the Independence Spirit’ programme conducted by the state Special Affairs Department (Jasa) at Rumah Sekaya, Sungai Penyarai in Kakus recently.
Adding on, Sikie who is Kakus assemblyman, said: “I hope that the programme organised by Jasa would provide clearer explanation to the youngsters on how the condition of the country before and after National Day.”
On a separate subject, Sikie expressed his thanks to his constituents for rendering their full support to Barisan Nasional (BN) in the last state election.
He said such solid support showed that the people of Data Bian, Sungai Penyarai wanted sustainable development in their area. Later, Sikie announced grants of RM30,000 for the village security and development committee (JKKK) of Rumah Sekaya and RM7,000 to its women’s bureau.
Tatau District officer Long Jok, Tatau Information Officer Rinta Engkamat, and Penghulu Sanok Magai were among those present at the function.