KAPIT: The spirit of unity and cooperation among all races in Sarawak is essential for addressing the challenges of the future, says Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
He stressed that this principle, encapsulated by the phrase ‘Segulai Sejalai’ (together in unity), is crucial for achieving progress and prosperity.
Reflecting on Sarawak’s history, he noted that divisions and conflicts in the past only resulted in destruction and stagnation.
“About 100 years ago, our forefathers grappled with intense intra-tribal conflicts driven by spiritual beliefs, headhunting, social status, honor, and disputes over territories and resources.
“These conflicts created a cycle of endless chaos and violence. When James Brooke began his rule in Sarawak in 1841, these patterns of conflict were already well-established.
“The Brooke Administration faced fierce opposition from local leaders who fought courageously to preserve their traditions and autonomy.
“In response, the Brookes initiated punitive expeditions to suppress uprisings, rebellions, and resistance movements,” he said.
Uggah said this during the opening of an international seminar commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Kapit peace-making ceremony at the Kapit Civic Centre, today, where it featured eight papers presented by experts and academics from Australia, France, Indonesia, and other countries.
Uggah noted that the Brooke Administration launched several punitive expeditions, including those in Katibas, Ulu Ai, Delok, Great Kayan, and others between 1849 and 1905.
He said that while these expeditions marked Sarawak’s tumultuous past, peace-making ceremonies were organised to end hostilities.
Among these were ceremonies at Lubok Antu in 1888, Baram in 1899, Kapit in 1907 and 1924 as well as at Simanggang in 1920 and 1924.
“The Kapit ceremony held on Nov 16, 1924, was especially significant, bringing together leaders from the Iban, Kayan, Kenyah, and Kajang communities of Sarawak and Kalimantan.
“It marked the end of violence and the beginning of reconciliation, healing, and unity,” he said.
He added that the peace achieved through these efforts laid the foundation for economic growth, social harmony, and cooperation among different ethnic groups.
The progress, said the Bukit Saban assemblyman, has continued to shape Sarawak’s development over the decades.
“We must never forget the lessons of history. We must have peace. Peace is the very foundation and essence for us to move forward.
“With peace, we now have the strength, wisdom, and harmony to build a better tomorrow,” he said.
On the same note, he said that Sarawak now faces modern challenges such as climate change, technological advancements, food security, and income disparity.
Uggah urged the Dayak community to work together as well as collaborate with others, saying these pressing issues require collective effort and unity to address effectively.
“It is very fortunate that Sarawakians have learned to coexist peacefully, rejecting hatred and division.
“Under the leadership of our Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, inclusive policies like the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 ensure opportunities for everyone.”
He further highlighted Sarawak’s growing role in the global green economy, with international partners like Japan and South Korea expressing interest in renewable energy collaborations.
Unity, he stressed, will be key to maximising these opportunities.
“By staying united, we can propel Sarawak into the global economy and secure a brighter future for all,” he added.
