Dusit (centre) presents a RM5,000 mock cheque to Paul. Also seen with their mock cheques are Sidi (second left) and Richard (right). At left is Noelle.
KUCHING: The NCR Land Intervener Committee is hoping to raise RM250,000 to pursue its intervention proceeding in the appeal to the Federal Court by the state government against the recognition of the Iban customs of ‘Pemakai Menoa’ (territorial domain) and ‘Pulau Galau’ (communal forest reserve).
The funds will support the committee to intervene in three Federal Court cases, namely Tuai Rumah Sandah Anak Tabau versus Director of Forest and Sarawak Government; Siew Anak Libau versus Superintendent of Land and Survey, Sibu and Anor; and Siew Anak Libau versus Rosebay Enterprise Sdn Bhd.
The NCR Land Intervener Committee was set up following a resolution passed during a land forum organised by Dayak National Congress (DNC) in May, in reaction to the report that the state government, together with the state forest director, Sibu Land and Survey superintendent and a private company, were given leave to appeal to the Federal Court to overturn the decision of the Court of Appeal — in the three cases – recognising the Iban Adat of Pemakai Menoa and Pulau Galau.
The resolution, signed by DNC, Sarawak Dayak Graduates Association (SDGA) and Sarawak Dayak Iban Association (Sadia), beseeched that the state government recognises the Iban Adat of Pemakai Menoa and Pulau Galau.
“This fund raising activity is an initiative to ensure that Dayak communities can hold on to their most precious assets, which is their native customary rights (NCR) land.
“If we are to lose our NCR land rights in Pemakai Menoa and Pulau Galau, the foundation of our NCR land rights will come to an end. The impact of the decision of the Federal Court therefore, will make or break our lives and sources of livelihood of the Dayak communities.
“If we don’t do something now, it may be too late,” SDGA president Dr Dusit Jaul told a press conference at the association’s office here yesterday.
Sadia president Sidi Munan, DNC vice-president Paul Raja, secretary-general Richard Lias and SDGA deputy president Noelle Lily Morse were also present.
Dusit added it was a sacred duty and a calling to all Dayaks, whether they are members of NGOs, political leaders, community leaders, business community, farmers or individuals to transcend all differences to solemnly and materially support the Intervener Committee to intervene in the three Federal Court cases regarding NCR land matters.
He appealed to Dayak NGOs to make a donation for this purpose.
“With sufficient funds, and as Intervener, we will be heard in the Federal Court as to our views and opinions on Dayak land rights. We want the Federal Court to give us due consideration and take us seriously.”
Paul, who is also the chairman of the NCR Land Intervener Committee, said there were currently 13 lawyers assisting in the intervention proceeding on a pro bono basis. He added that the committee was looking to file its intervention as soon as possible.
“Although we are fighting this in the court, it is important for all Sarawak native groups to be fully integrated to support this cause. Bear in mind that these cases are also affecting all indigenous communities with regards to NCR land issue including the Malay and Melanau communities.
“Therefore, support from all native groups in the state is needed,” he said.
Paul explained that the expenses would be on travelling, research and moving around witnesses for interviews, among others.
On another note, he said there were now about 600 on-going NCR court cases throughout the state. Sadia alone is handling more than 200 cases.
In this regards, Paul said if the Pemakai Menoa and Pulau Galau were not recognised, such cases would continue to grow.
At the event yesterday, SDGA, Sadia and DNC presented RM5,000 each to the committee.
Those interested to support the intervention proceeding can make their donation to Maybank current account 511234114636 under the names of Angela Jabing, Hazelina Samuel or Lucia Bintang.