KAPIT: The Kapit Peace Agreement, signed on Nov 16, 1924, marked the end of a bloody conflict between the Iban, Kayan, and Kenyah communities in Sarawak.
Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said that the agreement served as a resolution to unite the people for over a century.
“This historic agreement took place at Kapit Fort, now known as Fort Sylvia, in the presence of Rajah Brooke and the elders of these ethnic groups.
“Although not all conflicts could be resolved immediately, this agreement marked the beginning of peace in Sarawak,” he said.
Nanta who is also Kapit MP said this at the 100th Anniversary of the Peace-Making Ceremony which was officiated by the Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, at Fort Sylvia here Sunday (Dec 8).
He stressed that many disputes were settled following the agreement, bringing an end to long-standing feuds between ethnic groups.
“This understanding has contributed to greater safety and harmony. The prolonged wars and conflicts had disrupted the social and economic stability of the nation, which is why diplomacy was used to put an end to them,” he added.
He emphasised that the peace agreement should serve as an example for the people to focus on development, innovation, and national progress.
He also stressed the importance of balancing education and infrastructure development to ensure Kapit does not lag behind.
“A great deal of work has been done by the Sarawak and federal governments in this regard, so on behalf of the people of Kapit, I express my heartfelt gratitude.
“While we celebrate the Kapit Peace Agreement, I believe the symbol of unity must be viewed from a broader perspective – that of Malaysians as a whole.
“Malaysians are becoming more discerning and respectful of unity. We must realise that if unity is not preserved, we risk losing everything we have today,” he said.
Also present were Wan Junaidi’s wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Satok assemblyman Datuk Ibrahim Baki, Tupong assemblyman Datuk Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman and Sarawak State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki.
