KUCHING (Aug 10): Dayak women should be recognised for their efforts in ensuring the continuity of their culture and heritage, said Sabah Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Dr Jeffrey Kitingan.

He asserted that Dayak women are well known for their skills in various fields, which serve as a strong backbone for Dayak families and communities.

However, he said that their roles are often met with various challenges such as gender discrimination, lack of access to education and healthcare, and inadequate recognition, especially in terms of environmental management.

“For example, the Dayak women in Kalimantan, Indonesia play a vital role in forest restoration, the fight against illegal logging and promoting sustainable use of forests, but their efforts are often unrecognised and they have limited power in decision-making.

“Hence, we need to change this by ensuring their voices are heard and their efforts are recognised in all aspects of natural resources management,” he said.

Jeffrey said this when officiating at the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples 2024 celebration held at the Christian Ecumanical Worship Centre (CEWC), Jalan Stampin here yesterday.

The theme of the event, ‘The Role of Indigenous Women in the Preservation and Transmission of Traditional Knowledge’, emphasises the role of Dayak women in safeguarding and delivering traditional knowledge to the future generation, he said.

“They are regarded as the caretaker of traditions, native languages and traditional medicine that serve as the identity of the Dayaks.

“This theme is not only relevant, but also critical in ensuring the continuity of our culture.

“We should continue to ensure our women are given the recognition and support needed.

“This traditional knowledge is not only important for the community but also for the wider world as it offers many solutions to global challenges, such as climate change and loss of biodiversity,” he added.

Earlier, a symposium was held featuring two speakers from Kalimantan, Indonesia, two from Sabah and three from Sarawak.

Moreover, a cultural night is taking place later this evening to showcase the various cultural performances from indigenous groups.