SERIAN: The Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) Serian Division made history by organising its inaugural Ngaru Bidurok DBNA & Outstanding Students Awards Ceremony for SPM and STPM achievers, uniting all six of its branches – Serian, Kedup, Tebedu, Bung Sadung, Padawan and Siburan – on a single platform for the very first time.
The ceremony was officiated by Bukit Semuja assemblyman John Ilus, representing Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister, Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn.
Notable attendees included Serian Division Resident Caroline Cleophas Joseph, District Officers Gerard George Entigar and Ranum Bari, and community leader Temenggong Henry Bujang Sendan.
Organising Chairman, Dr Clarence Jerry described the event as a significant achievement in uniting the Bidayuh community through education, noting that scheduling challenges had pushed the ceremony back from January to April before all parties rallied to ensure its success.
A total of 90 outstanding students were honoured – 55 SPM candidates and 35 STPM candidates from the 2024 examinations – recognised for their hard work, discipline and perseverance.
In his speech delivered by John Ilus, Sagah commended DBNA Serian Division for the initiative, stressing that education is a shared responsibility between schools, government and the wider community.
He emphasised that education remains the most powerful pathway to transform lives, adding that Sarawak is placing strong focus on STEM to prepare students for a future shaped by digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and advanced industries.
The minister also highlighted the state government’s Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES), reaffirming its commitment to ensuring no deserving Sarawakian is denied higher education due to financial constraints.
Beyond academics, he urged students to embody values of discipline, integrity, resilience and community responsibility as cornerstones of true success.
Appreciation was extended to generous contributors, including a RM20,000 donation from Theng Lian Meu and RM2,000 from the SMK Tebakang Alumni Association, both channelled towards student incentives.
Although several key leaders, including Datuk Seri Richard Riot Jaem, Datuk Martin Ben, Dr Simon Sinang Bada and Datuk Amar Michael Manyin Jawong, were unable to attend, their support and endorsement were warmly acknowledged.
The ceremony concluded on a celebratory note, marking a watershed moment for the Bidayuh community of Serian Division, and signalling the birth of what many hope will become a proud and enduring annual tradition.
