6 days ago
Proposed centre to safeguard Sarawak's native heritage, says minister
Sikie (second left), Deputy Minister in the Premier's Department (Native Laws and Customs) Datuk Jefferson Jamit (second right) and other dignitaries show the newly launched books. — Sarawak Public Communications Unit photo
KUCHING (Aug 9): Dato Sri John Sikie Tayai has voiced full support for the proposal to establish a dedicated Customs, Culture and Tradition Centre for the Sarawak Council for Native Customs and Traditions (Mais).
The Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department described the initiative as timely and strategic in ensuring the preservation, development and promotion of the state's indigenous customs and culture can be carried out in a more systematic, professional and impactful manner.
'It is time for Mais to play a more cohesive role in strengthening the preservation of customs and culture, which are not only the identity of this state but also an important asset to the socio-economic development of Sarawak,' he said when officiating the Mais Innovation Day 2025 programme and Book Launching Ceremony at a hotel in Kuching on Friday night.
He added the initiative was in line with the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which emphasises transformation through innovation, social inclusion and sustainable development.
'Mais' involvement in sparking creative and innovative ideas, as well as publishing books based on research and writing on the customs, culture and traditions of Sarawak's native community is very appropriate and aligns with its role and function, particularly in engaging the younger generation,' he said.
The proposal to set up the centre was announced alongside the launch of five books on native customs and culture, which include works on Bidayuh and Melanau heritage. heritage John Sikie Tayai native
