KUCHING: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg paid his last respect to the late Datin Seri Devong Anyie, wife of the first Orang Ulu minister during Sarawak’s first post-independence cabinet, Datuk Seri Tajang Laing, at the family residence today.
Abang Johari arrived at the Tajang residence at approximately 4.15 pm, accompanied by his entourage.
He spent time with the family, offering his condolences and words of comfort during the period of mourning.
Devong passed away peacefully at her home on April 12 at the age of 81.
Among those that paid their respects were Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring) Datuk Gerawat Gala, Hulu Rajang Member of Parliament Datuk Wilson Ugak, Murum assemblyman Kennedy Chukpai Ugon, Belaga assemblyman Datuk Liwan Lagang, and Opar assemblyman Billy Sujang.
“We have lost a woman who has done a lot of good to the women of the Ulu,” said Abang Johari.
“She did a good job by giving inspiration to the Orang Ulu women community, particularly during the early 80s.”
“I was then the Assistant Minister, and I had the opportunity of working together with her in Belaga, where she did a lot of social work and created awareness on the importance of education,” he added.
“That is why I think the legacy of Datin lies in terms of social reform that she brought to Belaga, particularly among the Ulu community.”
Chukpai described her passing as a significant loss to the local community.
“I think this is a great loss to the people of Belaga as a whole, especially in Jogja Asap, because our late Datin is very, very caring,” he said.
“She has contributed a lot to the community. I think it’s a great loss to our community.”
Liwan also paid tribute to her legacy.
“Datin Seri is the woman behind Datuk Seri Tajang during his leadership days,” he said.
“She was someone who could really bring together all communities in Belaga to rally behind the government of the day.
“She did it gracefully, carefully, and most interestingly, she was very intelligent.
“She was very friendly, reached out to everybody, and was very, very inclusive.”
Billy Sujang echoed the sentiments, calling her passing a great loss for the wider Orang Ulu community.
“Actually, it’s a great loss for the Orang Ulu community.
“She is one of the great leaders that we know among the community of Orang Ulu from the past experience there,” he said.
“She helped a lot, guided the young generation. I’ve been with her in a few functions.
“I know her ability, her influence. Her knowledge about the culture is very important.
“Since I am part of the Orang Ulu community, and my wife is Orang Ulu, I know how much the Orang Ulu will miss her in the community later on, ” he added.
