KUCHING: The late Datuk Seri Bo’ Tajang Laing is a towering figure in Sarawak’s early leadership and rural development, leaving behind a legacy that spans education, politics and community transformation.
Described by his daughter, Livan Tajang, 63, as a disciplinarian with a deep love for people, the late Tajang was among the first Orang Ulu to receive formal education in Kuching in the 1950s, before going on to become the first Orang Ulu headmaster in Belaga.
“He was quite strict because he was a teacher, but he loved people and the community,” she said when interviewed by Sarawak Tribune at the residence at Bukit Antu here this evening.
Tajang became the first Orang Ulu minister in Sarawak’s early Cabinet after winning an election under the Parti Pesaka Anak Sarawak (PESAKA) under the leadership of Tun Jugah.
He went on to serve as minister for agriculture and forestry, frequently travelling to rural areas such as Belaga and Baram.
According to Livan, her father’s work in rural development left a lasting impact, particularly through the introduction of crops such as cocoa and oil palm.
“The sawit that people earn from today was actually introduced by him. Before that, he also taught communities how to plant cocoa.
“Despite his busy schedule as a minister, which often kept him away from home, his commitment to serving rural communities never wavered.
“His love for his people stands out. Him and my mother, they were a very good couple.
“They were very generous with their time and money, and he was always going back to the interior because he cared deeply for the people,” she said.
Livan also recalled her father’s final moments, describing them as peaceful and meaningful.
“The last words he said was actually the name of my mother, who had passed away the year before in April,” she shared.
His funeral rites will be held in Sungai Asap, Belaga, in accordance with the Orang Ulu customs.
His wake will be on for 16 days at the longhouse, Uma Nyaving, to allow the community to pay their respects, before final burial in a tomb, completing an 18-day funeral process.
