KUCHING: Education plays a vital and transformative role in shaping individuals and communities, serving as a powerful tool that can change society.
In stating this, Tebedu assemblyman Dr Simon Sinang Bada noted that among the Kenyah community, the spirit of unity and emphasis on education have long been central values.
“Together, with the resilience of the Orang Ulu community and the success of many Kenyah professionals, this shows how education can uplift entire communities.
“Hence, education is a very important weapon where it can change a community, a nation, and even the world,” he said, while drawing on his own experience of overcoming hardship through learning.
He was speaking at the 14th Educational Incentive Award and Peng Leto Kenyah Sarawak (PLKS) 10th anniversary dinner held at a local restaurant here last night.
The event was organised by the Persatuan Kebangsaan Kenyah Sarawak (PKKS) Kuching Branch and Persatuan Ibu Kenyah Sarawak (PIKS) in conjunction with the 10th anniversary of their relocation to Kuching.
“This gathering is not only about celebration, but also about strengthening our bonds and inspiring our young generation to strive for excellence through education,” Dr Simon said.
Reflecting on Sarawak’s vision under the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, he called for collective effort to ensure that the state achieves high-income status by 2030.
“The government alone cannot achieve this. It takes everyone’s participation to ensure every Sarawakian benefits from progress,” he said.
He also commended the Orang Ulu community’s resilience and acknowledged the many successful Kenyah professionals who continue to contribute to the state’s development.
Dr Simon later shared light-hearted personal anecdotes and expressed appreciation to several community leaders, including Datuk Isaac Lugun, Juliana Usun, village chief Francis Nayok Lawai, and Peter Sawal, for their longstanding friendship and contributions.
The event, which featured traditional Kenyah culture, music and dance, also drew participation from representatives of various ethnic groups — a testament to Sarawak’s spirit of unity in diversity.
“Here in Sarawak, we eat together, play together and achieve together. That unity is what makes us truly special,” Dr Simon said.
He also pledged a personal contribution of RM10,000 to PKKS, to be made next year, as a gesture of support for future community and educational initiatives.
Meanwhile, the event also brought together Kenyah community members from across Sarawak, including dignitaries and community leaders.
The evening also featured the presentation of awards to outstanding students who excelled academically, serving as both recognition and motivation for others to follow in their footsteps.
