SIBU: The late Barbara Mendu, founder of Sarakup Indu Dayak Sarawak (SIDS), is a great role model and example in serving Dayak women in the state, said Michael Tiang Ming Tee.
Hence, the Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing, and Local Government urged its members to emulate Barbara’s determination.
“Although she comes from a very humble background, no one can deny her passion and high commitment to founding SIDS to reach out to Dayak women.
“Through SIDS, she had helped many Dayak women by training them to be leaders, entrepreneurs, and the front line to serve Sarawak in the 1950s,” he said when officiating at the SIDS Agricultural Seminar in conjunction with the 31st Sibu Branch SIDS Annual General Meeting (AGM) here yesterday (March 25).
Tiang, who is also the Pelawan assemblyman, said the late Barbara never considered herself a woman or a Dayak facing shortages.
“She was independent, enthusiastic, and concerned enough to step forward to serve the people of Sarawak and others who needed help during the Second World War.
“Barbara’s influence deserves to continue in the 21st century to inspire and empower all members of SIDS.
“May God bless and equip SIDS women with abundant wisdom and strength to further expand this association,” he said.
During the ceremony, Tiang also granted RM5,000 to Sibu Branch SIDS for the association’s activities.
Earlier, the 31st Sibu Branch SIDS AGM, which was attended by approximately 135 members, was officiated by SIDS president Datuk Alice Jawan Empaling.
Alice, who is also the Ministry of Transport permanent secretary, in her opening speech, encouraged SIDS members to dare to gain knowledge for the good of themselves and the community.
She hoped that Dayak men and women would dare to participate in and support the various government programmes that have been planned.
Alice also reminded the members of the strategic core of SIDS, which requires the support of all members.
Also present was Sibu Branch SIDS chairman Angelyn Uchi Maseng.
