KUCHING: The Sarawak Dayak National Union (SDNU) has urged its members to strengthen unity and embrace a forward-looking role in Sarawak’s development.
Speaking at the welcoming dinner for SDNU’s 37th triennial general assembly at Imperial Hotel last night (Nov 14), its president Tan Sri William Mawan Ikom said the union must continue evolving to meet modern needs while remaining grounded in its roots.
“For almost seventy years we have championed Dayak unity, progress, and development. SDNU has evolved from a cultural body into a platform that connects our people with state policies and opportunities,” he said.
Mawan highlighted that this evolution mirrors broader changes within the community.
“We are attracting proactive, educated members who bring professionalism and fresh ideas. This is the new face of SDNU — rooted in tradition yet ready to embrace the future,” he said.
He noted that SDNU’s strength lies in its extensive grassroots network, comprising forty-eight branches along with dedicated women’s and youth wings.
Every member, he said, plays a vital role in translating development policies into tangible benefits for both rural and urban communities.
“Each member is an agent of change. Let us bridge the gap between rural communities and government initiatives, helping ensure that no one is left behind,” he added.
Mawan said SDNU is entering a phase where education, technology, smart agriculture, and economic empowerment will form the core of its programmes.
“We are moving from our agricultural roots toward building a knowledge-based and progressive Dayak community,” he said.
He also emphasised the importance of sustainable organisational development, noting that the union plans to seek guidance from the Premier on long-term matters in a separate meeting. Leadership renewal, he added, remains central to SDNU’s mission.
“Leadership must always be about service, not status. Let us nurture young leaders and strengthen the role of women within our organisation,” he said.
Earlier, SDNU deputy president Christopher Gira Sambang, who chaired the organising committee, said the dinner symbolised the union’s unity and resilience.
“This dinner celebrates our shared journey as a proud and resilient community,” he said, adding that the upcoming general assembly will provide a platform to review SDNU’s achievements and challenges.
“The world is changing rapidly, and SDNU must adapt to remain relevant. Our commitment to community development will continue to be guided by unity and collaboration,” he said.
“When the Dayak community stands together, our voice is stronger, and our progress unstoppable. We must prepare the younger generation not only to benefit from change but to lead it,” he added.
