KUCHING: The small sample size used in a recent survey was insufficient to make broad claims about the performance of Dayak ministers.
Political Secretary to the Minister of National Unity Dr Stephen William was responding to criticism from Professor Jayum Jawan, who suggested that Dayak ministers, particularly the Minister of National Unity, were underperforming based on a survey of 172 to 183 participants.
He questioned the methodology behind the survey, saying that such a limited sample could not accurately represent the diverse views of the Malaysian population.
He argued that the complexities of governance, especially in the Ministry of National Unity, cannot be measured solely by public perception or short-term outcomes.
“The Ministry of National Unity, which Professor Jayum singled out, is one of the most challenging portfolios in Malaysia.
“Tasked with addressing sensitive racial and cultural issues in a multiracial nation, its impact is often intangible.
“Initiatives like Unity Week and the promotion of Rukun Negara aim to foster harmony and understanding — outcomes that are not easily measured by conventional metrics.
“Unlike ministries that deal with infrastructure or economic development, the Ministry of National Unity works to bridge divides, foster dialogue, and prevent societal fractures,” he said in a Facebook post.
In response to Jayum’s previous criticisms of Dayak cultural events like the Pekit Kumang beauty pageant, William reiterated the importance of such events in celebrating and preserving Dayak heritage.
He argued that dismissing these cultural expressions undermines efforts to promote Dayak identity and pride.
He called for more constructive academic contributions that focus on improving the socio-economic conditions of Dayak communities.
William suggested that Jayum shift his research focus to addressing challenges faced by rural Dayak populations and proposing solutions for improving infrastructure, education, and healthcare in Dayak-majority areas.
“Dayak leaders and ministers often face unique challenges, including navigating deeply rooted systemic biases, limited resources, and balancing local and national interests.
“Rather than ridicule, constructive support and targeted research into policies that benefit Dayak communities would be more productive,” he added.