KUCHING: Rizzo Mungka Rechie has been elected as the new president of the Sarawak Dayak Graduates Association (SDGA) for the 2025–2027 term.
He takes over the helm with a renewed vision to empower Dayak graduates and drive Sarawak’s digital and economic transformation.
Former president Gary Ningkan will now serve as the association’s advisor.
Joining Rizzo in the new leadership lineup is Jordan Anthony Layan as deputy president. Jordan previously served as SDGA’s secretary-general for two consecutive terms.
Cliff Jude Zehnder has been appointed as the new secretary-general, with Shalene Durie elected as assistant secretary-general.
Three vice presidents were also appointed to represent Sarawak’s major Dayak communities — Reily Repai Maringai (Iban), Walter Sanggai Uden (Bidayuh), and Rudy Ujang (Orang Ulu).
Marvin Sait Winston has been named treasurer-general, while Aileen Kumang Jugah Muyang @ Tambat will serve as assistant treasurer-general.
The newly appointed executive committee members are Alexandra Nastassia John, Franklin Lingga Abun, Jacob Jim, Kimberly Wang, Lundy Joe Sibat, Melvin Jangga Rupitan, Phoenicia Christ Doning, and Priscilla John Pillai.
The appointments were made during the association’s 20th annual general meeting (AGM) held on Saturday (Mar 22).
In his inaugural speech, Rizzo highlighted the importance of graduate participation in Sarawak’s economic development, particularly through digital innovation.
“Through innovation and collaboration, SDGA will play a pivotal role in shaping a progressive, future-ready Dayak community while contributing to Sarawak’s digital and economic advancement,” he said.
Echoing the sentiment, Jordan stressed the need for graduates to equip themselves with new knowledge and skills in response to rapidly evolving technologies and industries.
“Graduates in Sarawak are capable of becoming top talent for the state’s emerging sectors. They must be proactive in upskilling to remain relevant in a fast-changing landscape,” he said.
Looking ahead, SDGA aims to align its strategic direction with Sarawak’s Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
The association plans to strengthen its network through collaborations with academic institutions, industries, corporations, and government agencies.
Among the key initiatives outlined are the establishment of a research and innovation unit to support digital transformation, economic sustainability, and the preservation of cultural heritage.
SDGA also aspires to become a research hub focusing on sustainable development, indigenous knowledge, and policymaking influence.
The association’s vision for 2025–2027 includes developing digital leaders, promoting entrepreneurship, and ensuring Dayak graduates play a central role in Sarawak’s socio-economic progress.
