KUCHING (Dec 2): Sarawak’s push for digitalisation is beginning to show significant results, with key strategic sectors – including education, agriculture, infrastructure development, and the economy – recording marked improvements following the implementation of the state’s digital policies. The Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) reported Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg as saying the introduction of the digital economy has opened opportunities for Sarawakians to grow, broaden access to education, and add value to the state’s resources. In the education sector, he commended Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC) for its Sarawak Rural Broadband Network (SRBN) initiative, which has enabled rural schools to access learning beyond the classroom and improve student performance. “We have seen improved academic results at SMK Datuk Temenggong Oyong Lawai Jau in Long San, and its students are now continuing their studies at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak,” he said at SDEC’s fifth anniversary celebration on Monday night. “They truly appreciate our efforts through SRBN, which has given them access to platforms such as Khan Academy, especially in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). This demonstrates the success of the initiative.” Abang Johari said digitalisation has also supported infrastructure development, including the construction of elevated roads that help reduce long-term maintenance costs. He explained that the Public Works Department (JKR) has used computer-based highway and road modelling simulations to determine the best engineering solutions for roads built on soft soil. “As a result, we are constructing elevated roads in Lingga, Kota Samarahan to Sri Aman, and in Baram, Miri, Marudi, Mulu, Long Panai, Long San, and Long Lama up to Limbang – areas with extremely soft soil. These elevated structures will lower maintenance costs in the long run. “Although initial construction costs are higher, long-term maintenance costs will be reduced, and the roads will be more stable. This is one of the achievements of using digital simulation in road development,” he said. The Premier also highlighted the role of digitalisation in transforming the agricultural sector, which has boosted yields, introduced Sarawak to the global stage through innovations such as the KETEQ.AI chip, and supported the production of renewable energy – all of which have contributed to the state’s economic growth.  

KUCHING (Dec 1): The musical theatre production ‘Melanau Legend: Tugau’ was staged from Nov 29-30 at the Balai Budaya, Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) here. The production is a creative work by Zaini Ozea and Glen Walford, directed by Mohd Zohren Sahari Che and featuring talented Sarawakian performers Anding Indrawani, Michelle Lungan, Azam Pitt, Elya Mustaghfirin, Fathullah Basri, and Khaiqal. Rooted in Melanau culture, ‘Tugau’ tells the story of a mysterious man possessing a magical spear, who arrives in the Kingdom of Kuala Pasai and is later named Tugau by the locals. The adaptation of this legendary Melanau tale on the modern stage is a testament that local artistry and cultural heritage remains relevant and must be preserved for future generations. By blending music, dance, ritual and drama, Tugau serves as a vital medium for preserving, introducing, and elevating Melanau heritage for contemporary audiences. Abdullah Saidol (standing, 13th left) accompanied by Noor Seela on his right take a group photo with the cast and production crew. — Photo by Chimon Upon It not only revitalised traditional art forms that are increasingly marginalised, but also provided a platform for education, community cohesion, and strengthening cultural identity in Sarawak. The production aimed to enrich the local performing arts scene and bring ethnic work to the mainstream stage, made possible through a collaboration between the National Department for Culture and Arts (JKKN) Sarawak and Persatuan Teater Sanggar Kreatif Kuching. “This initiative by the federal government aims to showcase various cultural works across Malaysia to preserve, maintain, and conserve our cultural and artistic heritage at the state level. “It is also part of our efforts to elevate more work from Sarawak’s diverse ethnic groups, in addition to our staging of ‘Kumang Keling’ last month,” said JKKN Sarawak director Noor Seela Noor Sulaiman when met by reporters last night. Noor Seela — Photo by Chimon Upon She noted that Tugau was once staged last year at the national level of Panggung Seni Traditional, and is being restaged this year specifically for Sarawakians. “We hope to further develop cultural arts theatre in Sarawak through collaborations with DBP and other non-governmental organisations (NGOs).” Meanwhile, Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and Ukas) Datuk Abdullah Saidol emphasised the importance of bringing Sarawak’s heritage to mainstream platforms through the creative arts. “Today we witnessed a performance of a Melanau legend, but I believe there are many more legends from other ethnic groups that could be adapted. However, the efforts of JKKN, together with DBP, will further enrich and cultivate local theatre,” he said. Abdullah Saidol — Photo by Chimon Upon He believed the upcoming Performing Arts Centre would further strengthen artistic activities in Sarawak. “I hope that with the cooperation of all these agencies and the involvement of even more theatre groups — not only Malay theatre groups but also those from other ethnic communities who have their own theatre ensembles that use their own languages we can showcase them as well. It will be great to highlight Sarawak’s rich culture. “Our main agenda is to include the development of the arts to promote Sarawak,” he added. One of the dance performances during the production. — Photo by Chimon Upon  

KUCHING (Oct 9): Minister in the Premier’s Department Dato Sri John Sikie Tayai has commended the Sarawak Council for Native Customs and Traditions (Mais) for its ongoing efforts to review and codify native laws across the state, including the Adat Bidayuh 1994. Sikie was cited in a Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas) report as saying the continuous review process is essential to ensure that customary laws remain relevant and aligned with modern-day realities. He noted that apart from the Adat Bidayuh 1994, Mais is also working to review and codify other customary laws such as the Adat Iban 1993, Adet Kayan-Kenyah 1994, Lun Bawang Custom 2004, Bisaya Custom 2004, Adet Kelabit 2008, and Adet Penan 2011. “Mais plays a key role in maintaining and codifying indigenous customs throughout Sarawak. The review process is vital to ensure that native laws continue to serve as a bridge between heritage and progress,” he said at the closing of Simposium Adat Bidayuh 2025 at the Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) Multipurpose Hall yesterday evening. Sikie praised the Simposium Adat Bidayuh 2025, themed ‘Preservation and Development of Adat Bidayuh’, for contributing to this broader effort by fostering discussions that strengthen and modernise the Bidayuh community’s centuries-old customs. “Through this symposium, we see how tradition continues to guide modern governance, unity, and justice. It shows that our customs are not static, as they are living systems that can adapt and thrive in changing times,” he said. He expressed hope that continued collaboration among Mais, DBNA, and government agencies would further deepen understanding and appreciation of native customs. “With sustained unity and wisdom, we can ensure that our adat remains a pillar of peace, justice, and shared prosperity,” he added. He also underscored the importance of empowering Ketua Masyarakat and Ketua Kaum (KMKK) to administer customs with fairness, integrity, and understanding, describing them as the “frontline guardians” of cultural order and harmony. Meanwhile, Mais secretary Mackos Sibong said the symposium gathered more than 500 participants from Kuching and Serian divisions, including community leaders, government departments, and DBNA members. He said the discussions covered leadership roles, the revision of Adat Bidayuh 1994, customary land preservation, and legal perspectives within the Native Court system. Among those present were Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Native Laws and Customs) Datuk Jefferson Jamit Unyat and Adviser in the Sarawak Premier’s Office (Education) Datuk Amar Michael Manyin Jawong.  

MIRI: Pelbagai topik berkaitan adat bumiputera Sarawak termasuk Adat Iban 1993, Adat Bidayuh 1994, Adat Kayan-Kenyah 1994, Adat Bisaya 2004, Adat Penan 2011 serta adat Melanau menjadi antara pengisian utama Seminar Adat Zon Utara 2025 di sini, pada Jumaat. Seminar anjuran Majlis Adat Istiadat Sarawak (MAIS) selama dua hari itu turut memberi tumpuan kepada aspek pengurusan tanah adat berasaskan Land Code (Amendment) 2018, selain memperkenalkan konsep pembangunan adat natif Sarawak. Program berkenaan bertujuan meningkatkan kefahaman masyarakat terhadap fungsi dan peranan MAIS, di samping menekankan kerelevanan adat dalam kehidupan moden, terutama dalam menghadapi pelbagai cabaran semasa. Majlis penutupan telah disempurnakan oleh Menteri di Jabatan Premier Sarawak, Dato Sri John Sikie Tayai, dengan kehadiran ratusan peserta yang terdiri daripada pemimpin masyarakat, agensi kerajaan dan wakil komuniti setempat. Turut hadir ialah Timbalan Menteri di Jabatan Premier (Undang-Undang dan Adat Bumiputera), Datuk Jefferson Jamit Unyat, Timbalan Menteri di Jabatan Premier (Buruh, Imigresen dan Pemantauan Projek), Datuk Gerawat Gala, Ahli Dewan Undangan Negeri (ADUN) Telang Usan, Dato Dennis Ngau, Ketua MAIS, Datu Ronnie Edward, Setiausaha MAIS, Mackos Sibong serta Pegawai Daerah Miri, Siti Rohanie Yusof yang mewakili Residen Bahagian Miri.-EDISI UKAS

KUCHING: Buku Gawai Dayak Coffee Table Book 2024 telah dilancarkan secara rasmi bagi mendokumentasikan warisan budaya dan sejarah perayaan Gawai Dayak untuk tatapan generasi akan datang. Demikian kata Menteri Pendidikan, Inovasi dan Pembangunan Bakat Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn ketika mewakili Timbalan Premier Sarawak Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, malam semalam. Beliau pada masa yang sama menyifatkan buku tersebut sebagai pencapaian penting dalam memastikan semangat Gawai terus dihayati dan diwarisi. “Buku ini bukan sekadar koleksi gambar tetapi satu penghormatan kepada tradisi, dokumentasi budaya dan legasi untuk masa depan,” katanya semasa Majlis Apresiasi Gawai Dayak 2024 dan pelancaran buku berkenaan malam semalam. Beliau menekankan bahawa Gawai bukan sekadar perayaan tetapi juga melambangkan warisan, perpaduan dan kebanggaan masyarakat Dayak. Buku ini akan menjadi rujukan penting bagi generasi muda dalam memahami budaya dan sejarah Gawai, tegasnya. Turut hadir adalah Timbalan Menteri di Jabatan Premier Sarawak (Undang-Undang dan Adat Bumiputera) merangkap Ahli Dewan Undangan Negeri (ADUN) Bukit Goram Datuk Jefferson Jamit Unyat, Timbalan Menteri di Jabatan Premier Sarawak (Buruh, Imigresen dan Pemantaun Projek) Datuk Gerawat Gala. Juga Timbalan Menteri Pengangkutan Sarawak Datuk Dr Jerip Susil, Timbalan Menteri Utiliti dan Telekomunikasi Datuk Liwan Lagang, Ahli Parlimen Puncak Borneo Datuk Willie Mongin serta beberapa pemimpin tempatan yang lain.  

KUCHING (Dec 8): The traditional ‘baju kuas’, a distinctive garment of the Iban Balau community form the Sri Aman region, is receiving renewed attention amid concerns over the fading of its specialised embroidery craft. The Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts has announced a collaboration with TV Sarawak to produce a documentary highlighting this cultural heritage. Deputy minister Datuk Snowdan Lawan emphasised the garment’s unique value and economic potential. “High-quality baju kuas pieces, especially those intricately embroidered with gold thread, can command prices up to RM3,000,” said the Balai Ringin assemblyman at a a pre-Christmas dinner hosted by Sarakup Indu Dayak Sarawak (SIDS) Kuching on Saturday. He noted that while the ‘marek empang’ or ‘tangu Iban’ is a more widely recognised component of Iban women’s attire, the baju kuas is distinct and less known, warranting greater awareness across Sarawak. Master craftswoman Julia James, 71, one of the few remaining custodians of the skill, explained that the baju kuas is traditionally worn during official ceremonies, rituals, and festivals like Gawai Dayak. However, its popularity has declined sharply over the years, overshadowed by the more common tangu. “The gold-thread embroidery required for baju kuas demands a far higher level of skill and significantly more time to master,” she said, adding that opportunities for the younger generation to inherit the craft have become increasingly limited. With 38 years of experience, Julia’s pieces are highly sought after even by prominent figures, including Tan Sri Datuk Sri Empiang Jabu. Julia’s works have been showcased in various competitions and fashion shows as well. A recent showcase at the 2024 Gawai Dayak ‘Niti Daun’ parade sparked fresh interest, reinforcing concerns that the tradition could disappear without deliberate intervention. In response, Julia and her family, encouraged by Snowdan, are organising the first open workshop dedicated to baju kuas embroidery. The three-day introductory programme at the Centre for Technology Excellence Sarawak (Centexs) from Dec 12 to 14 will focus on hands-on gold-thread techniques, with participants receiving certificates upon completion. This grassroots effort, coupled with the upcoming documentary, aims to safeguard the future of this intricate art form and showcase its cultural and economic significance for a new generation.  

KUCHING (Dec 6): The biography ‘Abang Johari: Sarawak’s First Premier’ is not just a record of leadership but also a testament to the state’s progress and a reflection of the vision, wisdom and dedication guiding the state toward a stronger and more prosperous future. This was highlighted by Sarawak Governor Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar during the launch of the biography at the Dayak Cultural Foundation here. “In documenting the life and leadership of the Right Honourable Premier Abang Johari Tun Openg, we reflect on a journey marked by vision, dedication, and a steadfast commitment to Sarawak’s progress,” he said. “Throughout his tenure, he has strengthened economic strategies, championed digital transformation, and pursued greater autonomy in managing our resources.” The Yang di-Pertua Negeri noted Abang Johari’s commitment to expanding connectivity, uplifting rural communities, and diversifying the economy to build a resilient and modern Sarawak. “His leadership reaches every corner of the state—from Tanjung Datu to Lawas—ensuring no community is left behind. “This people-centred and future-oriented leadership will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations,” he added. Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, who was also present, expressed his appreciation for Abang Johari’s unwavering commitment. “The Premier continues to forge a legacy built on unity, progress, and the well-being of all Sarawakians, regardless of religion, ethnicity, or culture. “This book is a gesture of appreciation from the Dayak community to the Premier for his continuous support and dedication,” he said. Author Prof Dr Michael Leigh in his speech said the biography was driven by a desire to understand what sets the Premier apart from his predecessors. “Answering that challenge has resulted in the book launched today. The analysis and interpretations are fully my own.” The 113-page book highlights the Premier’s leadership, political achievements, and personal integrity. Others present at the ceremony were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, State Legislative Assembly Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar, and Tun Jugah Foundation chairman Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Leonard Linggi Jugah.

KUCHING (Dec 6): Sarawak’s civil service has surpassed its 2025 digitalisation target, marking a major milestone in the state’s push towards achieving full end-to-end digital government by 2030. Sarawak Civil Service Digitalisation Unit (SCSDU) director Datu Grace Huong Siew Hung said the civil service had achieved 59.4 per cent digitalisation as of November, exceeding the 50 per cent benchmark set for 2025. Speaking at the SCSDU Digital Excellence Appreciation Dinner held at The Waterfront Hotel here, she said the achievement reflected disciplined teamwork, strong leadership and close collaboration across ministries and agencies. “When the civil service aligns around a common outcome, progress becomes possible. Surpassing 59 per cent shows that we are ahead of schedule and delivering results that matter to the rakyat,” she said. However, Huong reminded agencies that more than 400 services remain manual and stressed that 2026 must be the year these legacy processes are transformed into digital platforms. The state has identified 1,106 services to be digitalised by 2030. She added that digital readiness among the state workforce continues to improve, supported by large-scale training programmes and upgraded digital infrastructure across government agencies. The appreciation dinner also recognised outstanding contributors through the SCSDU Digital Excellence Awards 2025, honouring agencies and digital leaders who have demonstrated excellence in digital governance, innovation and service transformation.