Idyllic Orang Ulu town comes alive during CNY

0

Dennis (seated, third right) and Penghulu Desmond Yap Cheng Siang (on Dennis’ right) at his house with family members and relatives.

LONG LAMA, Baram: Despite being located deep in hinterland of Baram surrounded predominantly by Orang Ulu communities, the rural town of Long Lama comes alive every Chinese New Year.

Telang Usan assemblyman Dennis Ngau said Chinese New Year open house, much like those held during Hari Raya or Gawai, welcomes family, friends and visitors. What makes the occasion more meaningful is the coming home of local sons and daughters from far and near to celebrate the festive occasion with families.

Dennis said Chinese New Year celebration is unique in Long Lama as those from various ethnic communities visit their Chinese friends and families, thereby enhancing community ties and racial harmony.

“Through years of living together, the Chinese community of Long Lama blended very well with the Orang Ulu communities here. This is evident as the Long Lama Chinese community is fluent in local dialects especially Kayan and Kenyah,” said Dennis.

Dennis said this during a visit to the residence of Chinese community leader for Long Lama, Beluru and Lapok Penghulu Desmond Yap Cheng Siang and others here recently.

Nevertheless, Dennis noted that as the younger generation work elsewhere, many have opted to celebrate the festive season away from here.

“However, we always encourage our community to return home to Long Lama during this auspicious occasion to ensure the younger generation never forget their ancestral roots and customs,” he added.

Also present were PBB Youth Chief and Member of PBB Sarawak Youth Movement Cr Dominic Nyurang Ajang, SAO Edwin Jelenggai of Long Bedian Sub-District and PBB Telang Usan Excos, Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) and Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) members.

Sim (seated, third left) with her family members in a group photo with a prominent Chinese family of Long Lama.