CANADA: The Tyendinaga Mohawk Council recently hosted a delegation from Malaysia that included representatives for the High Court of Malaysia and the Sarawak Native Court in a visit aimed at engaging with the indigenous communities in Canada.
The engagement was to learn more about preserving, promoting as well as documenting native cultures, customs and traditions for future generations in addition to exchanging views between both sides.
Among members of the delegation were Minister in the Premier’s Department Datuk Seri John Sikie Tayai, Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Law, MA63 and State-Federal Relations) Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali, Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Native Laws and Customs) Datuk Jefferson Jamit Unyat, and Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring) Datuk Gerawat Gala.
The meeting between both sides presented a valuable opportunity to foster mutual understanding and enhance cultural exchange besides exchanging information and views concerning the indigenous communities.
The Malaysian delegation was also interested in learning about the Tontakayè:ri’ne Restorative Justice and Gladue Services which is an alternative for youth involved with the justice system.
The programme brings together victims, offenders, and families or advocates in a safe environment to discuss the offence and its effects, and then jointly decide on the best way to address the matter.
Among those present were Murum assemblyman Kennedy Chukpai Ugon, Deputy State Secretary (Administration) Datu Buckland Bangik, and several community leaders representing the Iban, Bidayuh, and Orang Ulu communities.
