KOTA SAMARAHAN: It is vital for the Dayaks in Samarahan Division to feel that they are part of mainstream politics in the state so that they would not shy away from the government of the day.
In this respect, Parti Tenaga Rakyat Sarawak (Teras) Samarahan chairman Edward Brandah Madi said the setting up of the branch was meant for this purpose.
“We strive to recruit more members and hold meaningful activities to make our presence (in Samarahan) felt. We will continue these activities next year.
“Additionally, I also call on existing members to bring in more Dayaks to join Teras Samarahan,” he said in a speech during the branch’s annual general meeting (AGM) here on Monday night.
Brandah, who is a former councillor, also hoped that members of the community would join mainstream Dayak-based non-governmental organisations (NGOs), especially Sarawak Dayak National Union (SDNU), so that they would have a vehicle to move as one towards preserving their rights, interests, culture and tradition.
Additionally, he also encouraged more Dayaks to venture into business as he observed that the community was still lagging behind others in this respect.
“I notice that the younger Dayaks are very keen to work in the oil and gas industry, especially the offshore operations, and in the civil service.
“I acknowledge that they need jobs with financial security and stability. However, the business world can also provide the same, as long as you have perseverance, the right strategy and attitude as well as a sound network.”
Brandah, who is also a successful Iban entrepreneur, said he would not mind sharing his experience and knowledge in business with Dayak youths.
“I had lost thousands of ringgit teaching some young Dayaks on business and its technical know-how — only to lose them to the offshore oil and gas industry and the civil service later,” he related one of his bad experiences.
On another subject, Brandah encouraged members to help Barisan Nasional (BN) solidly secure the Tasik Biru constituency in the next state election.
“Your help is very much needed, especially if incumbent (Assistant Minister of Industrial Estate Development) Datuk Peter Nansian Ngusie gets to be renominated by BN to defend the seat.”
For the record, Nansian is also Teras deputy president.
At the AGM later, Brandah handed over new membership applications to a representative of Teras headquarters, Churchill Edward Drem who is also the party’s deputy information chief.
The function was also attended by Teras Samarahan deputy chairman Councillor Tuai Rumah David Jiku Nader, treasurer Nana Sabang, its secretary and Women chief Emas Gijak, as well as its Youth chief Naria Buau.-Borneo Post
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