KUCHING: Kayan families are encouraged to bring their children back to their villages so that younger generations remain connected to their roots, while longhouse residents are also urged to prioritise fire safety by ensuring every household is equipped with a fire extinguisher.
The call was made by Telang Usan assemblyman Dato Dennis Ngau during the Persatuan Wanita Kayan Sarawak (PWKS) dinner, which he described as more than a social gathering, but a meaningful moment to reflect on dedication, resilience, service and sisterhood.
“Children who grow up in the city must still know where they come from. Bringing them back to the village, especially during Christmas and school holidays, allows them to see the land of their ancestors, understand their identity, and appreciate their heritage,” he said when speaking at the PWKS Annual Dinner 2025, themed ‘A Night of Recognition & Celebration’ here today.
He acknowledged that road conditions and unpredictable weather, particularly for communities from Baram, Belaga, and other interior areas, remain challenging.
However, he stressed that the strength and resilience of the Kayan people have always enabled them to overcome such difficulties, adding that efforts are ongoing to improve road infrastructure for the future.
On the issue of safety, he expressed concern over recurring longhouse fires, citing a tragic incident in Telang Usan where a 22-door longhouse was destroyed within minutes.
“Many of these fires begin in the kitchen, sometimes due to carelessness or forgetting to turn off the stove. I strongly urge every family in a longhouse to purchase at least one fire extinguisher.
“Let us work together to keep our homes, families, and communities safe,” he said, adding that a unit costs about RM150 and could prevent a small fire from turning into a major disaster.
During his address, he also praised PWKS for its continued role as a pillar of strength, compassion and unity within the Kayan community, particularly in Kuching.
He highlighted the association’s commitment to empowering women, supporting families, serving the community and nurturing leadership grounded in integrity.
He credited the success of PWKS to the strong leadership of its chairman, Councillor Rosalyn Lah, alongside the committee members and the wider Kayan women community.
“What makes PWKS special is not only what you do, but who you are. You are a sisterhood built on mutual respect, understanding and shared purpose,” he said, adding that the association’s members give selflessly, not for recognition, but from the heart.
He also described Kayan women as the backbone of families and communities, noting that their resilience, leadership and unity have made PWKS a role model not only within Sarawak but also for women-led associations elsewhere.
Looking ahead, he expressed confidence that PWKS would continue to flourish and make a meaningful impact, especially as it prepares for programmes and initiatives leading up to 2026. In support of these efforts, he announced an allocation of RM10,000 to the association.
“As the world continues to change, the solidarity within PWKS remains one of our greatest strengths. When women stand together, they create impact and inspire a stronger society,” Dennis said.
During the dinner, the association also presented incentives to eight Kayan students who excelled in their studies.
Also present at the dinner were former PWKS advisor Datin Sri Hau Ngo, current president Roselyn Lah and organising chairperson Juliana Livan Lasa.
