Thursday, 29 May 2025

Author: Valentine Tawie Salok

Historic move to new longhouse

IT was either late 1958 or early 1959 when we finally left Tembawai Libas and moved to Kedap Tebing Ai (Kedap River Front), which was about 600 meters away. Not all households relocated to Kedap Tebing Ai; some moved just 100 metres to a downriver area called Passa, named after

Longhouse life is remembered fondly

IN January 2022, my first book, titled ‘Longhouse to City’, was published. Therefore, it seems fitting to reflect on my journey from my initial longhouse to the present in my upcoming columns for the following weeks. I was born on October 20, 1954, in Kedap, Saratok, and grew up in

The impact of SALCRA’s land development initiatives

IN the heart of Sarawak, a transformation has been going on. The once untouched jungles are now thriving plantations, thanks to the efforts of the Sarawak Land Consolidation and Rehabilitation Authority (SALCRA). However, this journey towards progress has not been without its challenges. It is a story of scepticism turned

Honouring the spirit of scouting brotherhood

ON Tuesday, April 29, the Sarawak Tribune featured an article about scouting that truly captivated me. Titled ‘Commissioners Reaffirm Commitment to Movement’, it highlighted the reaffirmation of commitment by 49 scouting commissioners in the presence of Chief Scout Commissioner, John Lim Boon Beng. The “reaffirmation of commitment” in this context

Music education: Inherent musical potential in every individual

EVERY child, woman and man possesses an inherent musical ability. This talent, when nurtured and developed, can lead to healthier, more enriching lifestyles. Research consistently demonstrates that quality music education stimulates creativity, builds confidence and fosters a child’s holistic development. As they grow into adulthood, individuals with a background in

Journey of harmony in school leadership

My first week of experience at SMK SEDAYA (Sekolah Datuk Abdul Rahman Yakub) in Kanowit was very hectic. Besides holding various meetings with teachers, I engaged in sessions with some of the Chinese towkays in town, explaining to them the issue of racialism and how it affected the school. Speaking

Gawai Dayak longhouse rules and expectations

WHEN hosting a festival or Gawai at a longhouse, organizers typically begin with a gathering in the early evening. This meeting takes place in the Tuai Rumah’s gallery, known as the ruai, or in adjacent galleries, providing a space for hosts and guests to convene and receive important instructions. During

Teaching journey from philosophy to psychology

I was hired at Rajang Teachers’ College in Binatang (later renamed Bintangor) on April 26, 1979. At the age of 25, I was tasked with teaching two subjects: Philosophy of Education and Psychology of Education. Philosophy involves examining the impact of the thinking of great philosophers from the past on

Discover the flavors of India at Bombay Sedap

If you find yourself in the vibrant, bustling area of Metrocity Boulevard, Matang, Kuching, there’s one destination you simply cannot miss — Bombay Sedap, a northern Indian restaurant that’s making waves for its authentic flavours and heartwarming hospitality. Strategically located at No.1, Jalan Metrocity Boulevard, directly opposite the Metrocity Megamall,

Farewell to USM: A New Chapter

By early March 1979, I was focused on leaving Penang’s USM campus and heading home. It had been a wonderful four years with two years spent renting a unit at No. 25, Pantai Jerjak. In December 1978, I received a letter offering me a teaching position at SMK Three Rivers,