KUCHING: The passing of Datuk Seri Bo’ Tajang Laing marks not only the loss of a statesman, but the departure of a guiding force whose influence continues to shape the Kayan community and the broader Orang Ulu society.
Telang Usan assemblyman, Datuk Dennis Ngau, said Tajang’s legacy must be understood from multiple perspectives: as a pioneering leader, a community elder, and a steady voice of guidance long after his years in public office.
Speaking as a Kayan leader himself, as well as in his capacity as Deputy President of the Federation of Orang Ulu Associations Malaysia (FORUM) and President of Persatuan Kayan Sarawak, he said Tajang’s contributions were both historic and deeply personal to the community.
He pointed out that the Kayan community, numbering only a small fraction of Sarawak’s population, has long relied on strong and unifying figures – a role Tajang fulfilled with distinction.
“In a community as small as ours, leadership carries even greater weight. Tajang stood tall not just as a political figure, but as a symbol of unity, stability and direction for the Kayan people,” he told Sarawak Tribune.
Dennis said Tajang’s achievements were particularly significant given the demographic realities of the Kayan community, estimated at around 100,000 people in a state of more than 2.8 million.
Despite this, Tajang rose to prominence and became the first Kayan to be conferred the Datuk Seri title – a milestone that elevated the community’s visibility and standing.
“He was not just a leader – he was, in many ways, a father figure to the Kayan community,” he said.
Beyond titles and positions, Dennis emphasised that Tajang’s enduring influence lay in his character – one defined by wisdom, restraint and a consistently positive outlook.
He said that throughout his life, including after retiring from politics, Tajang remained a quiet but firm pillar within the community, offering counsel and perspective to emerging leaders.
“Even when he was no longer in the spotlight, he continued to guide us. He always reminded us to stay aligned with the mainstream of politics, because our community is small and depends on stability, support and cooperation with the government.
“That message has become a guiding philosophy for many within the Kayan and Orang Ulu communities,” he said.
Reflecting on a personal encounter, Dennis recalled visiting Tajang at his longhouse a few years ago during a family celebration, where the veteran leader shared words that left a lasting impression.
“He told me that it is now our turn to lead and to do our best. While his generation had stepped back, they remained ready to offer advice whenever needed. That sense of continuity of passing the baton is something I will always remember,” he said.
Dennis also highlighted Tajang’s deep commitment to preserving Kayan ‘adat’ (customs and traditions), describing it as a cornerstone of his leadership and identity.
He said Tajang consistently advocated for the preservation of cultural heritage, ensuring that traditions were not lost amid modern development and it is a vision that continues to be upheld through organisations such as Persatuan Kayan Sarawak.
“As leaders today, we carry that same responsibility to ensure that our ‘adat’ is preserved and practised, so that future generations remain connected to their roots,” he said.
Dennis pointed out that Tajang’s legacy is being continued through his family members, including his daughter, Lohong Tajang, who remains actively involved in community leadership and grassroots development.
He said Tajang’s passing is deeply felt not only because of his contributions, but also due to the rarity of leaders of his stature, longevity and influence.
“It is not easy to find someone like him. He lived to 100, and throughout his life, he gave so much to the state, to Malaysia, and especially to the Kayan community,” he said.
At the same time, Dennis expressed hope that the state government would consider a meaningful recognition of Tajang’s contributions, particularly in advancing rural development and strengthening the voice of the Orang Ulu community.
“As we mourn his passing, we also honour a life that has guided us and will continue to guide us in how we serve our people,” he said.
