Anyi (second left) receives a memento from the headman while others look on.
MIRI: Persatuan Kenyah Lepo’ Aga (PKLA) Miri yesterday held a Family Day and fundraising event at Indin Resort in Luak.
Over 300 PKLA members from all walks of life attended the event which was also aimed at raising funds for the association.
Baram MP Anyi Ngau, who declared open the event, called on all members to be united and work together for the betterment of the community.
“There are only a few of us (Kenyah Lepo’ Aga’) in Baram. Therefore, we must unite and work hard so that we will one day be on par with other races,” he said.
Anyi said the Kenyahs had diversified over the years; many have moved from Long Jeeh in Ulu Baram to Long Teran Kanan B in Tinjar but they still come together through the association.
“PKLA must have visions to bring together members and also use the association as a platfrom to promote their traditions, cultures and laws so that we are not just ordinary members but have vision.”
He advised them to continue moving forward and set their vision so they would not be left behind.
There are five Kenyah Lepo’ Aga’ longhouses in Baram; Long Jeeh, Long Silat, Long Belaong, Long Selawan and Long Teran Kanan B.
Organising chairman of the event, Steven Lawai Udau, in his welcoming speech thanked members of the organising committee for their support and committment in ensuring the success of the event.
He said the event was made possible as members were working tirelessly together, including preparing food for the fundraising activity.
“Many of them donated money, the quantum not important. What is important is that they are willing to work together to make the event a success.”
This Family Day was organised by Kampung Long Teran Kanan B.
At the function, Anyi announced RM10,000 from his minor rural project (MRP) grant to PKLA and another RM5,000 to Kampung Long Teran Kanan B for organising the event.
A political secretary to the chief minister Datuk Robert Laing, Kenyah paramount chief Temenggong Joseph Ngau Lian and PKLA president Raymond Apoi were also present.
Various events were held including singing competition for those over 60, tug-of-war, lucky draws and fun games such as filling bottle with water using sponge and carrying ping pong ball on a spoon.
Performance from womenfolk of Kampung Long Teran Kanan B.