PBDS calls for end to political interference in tuai rumah appointments
Dr John Brian Anthony
KUCHING (June 9): Parti Bansa Dayak Sarawak (PBDS) has called for an end to political interference in the appointment of tuai rumah (longhouse chief).
The party's permanent chairman Dr John Brian Anthony claimed that political interference in the appointment of community leaders has long occurred in the Dayak community.
He explained that such practice not only 'contaminates' the customs and traditional social structure of the Dayak community but also erodes their trust in grassroots leadership institution.
'These are also often used as a political tool to ensure support for certain parties, thus weakening the autonomy of the community.
'PBDS emphasises that the appointment of tuai rumah should be based on the acceptance and trust of the community they represent, not based on the influence or interference of any political party.
'This appointment process needs to return to the foundations of custom, community values, and genuine leadership spirit,' he said in a press statement.
His statement was issued in support of Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) president Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, who on Sunday warned a certain political party leader against meddling in the selection of committee members for the Sibu Chinese Community Leaders Association.
John Brian noted that Tiong's criticism shows how political interference has affected communities in Sarawak.
Therefore, he urged the Sarawak government and relevant authorities to cease all forms of political interference in the appointment of community leaders, including tuai rumah.
He added that this should be achieved by formulating transparent and fair guidelines for grassroots leadership appointments, with active community involvement.
He stressed that the government must restore the Dayak community's autonomous power to nominate credible tuai rumah candidates who are accepted by the majority.
'PBDS will continue to fight for the rights and dignity of the Dayak community so that their social structure and customs are not further compromised for short-term political interests.
'Grassroots leadership is not a political tool — it is the voice of the community,' he said.
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