Dahim, DBNA president Datu Ik Pahon Joyik and Manyin take part in the cake-cutting ceremony.
SARIKEI: The Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA), which turns 60 next year, has been credited for uniting the Bidayuh community.
Minister of Infrastructure Development and Communication Dato Sri Michael Manyin Jawong, who is DBNA advisor, said the association’s seminars over the years have provided a forum for the various dialect groups to trace their roots and establish common ethical values.
“To me the most remarkable achievement of DBNA is not only in uniting the Bidayuhs of different dialect groups from Bau, Padawan, Penrissen, Serian and others but most of all they are now proud to identify themselves as Bidayuh,” he said at the DBNA Sarikei 24th anniversary dinner on Friday.
He said DBNA has every reason to celebrate its 60th anniversary on a grand scale next year and proposed the celebration be held after Gawai Dayak, preferably in September.
Manyin also announced an RM10,000 grant for DBNA Sarikei to organise activities and programmes for the benefit of its members and the local community.
Sarikei Resident Dahim Nadot, who is DBNA Sarikei advisor, had earlier requested for funds to help the branch purchase traditional costumes and a traditional gong set.
He said DBNA would be required to play a part in the setting up of the proposed Dayak Cultural Centre here.