‘Work together to revive Saribas’ glory years’
KUCHING: Saribas’ glory of yesteryears can be revived if properly recognised and promoted among the public.
Citing history, Minister of Housing cum Minister of Tourism Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg said before the state was ruled by the Brookes, Saribas had its own government, and Sarawak was only a small area between Kuching and Samarahan.
Thus, he planned to discuss with Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem to turn Saribas into a district in Betong division.
“So, my suggestion is that the Saribas Muslims Association conducts research and applies to the government if they wish Saribas to go back to its former glory.
“In terms of funding, I can help because I believe Saribas has a great future,” he said at the association's Hari Raya gathering at Aminuddin Baki Institute in Santubong recently.
On the association, he believed it was formed with a good intention, not just to congregate all Saribas folks but also to bring the clan up to be par with other communities.
“Strong ties will ensure the success of any plan. There should not be any personal agenda involved as it is a mutual fight.”
History has taught a lesson that the fall of the Malays was due to the splitting of forces among several factions, he said.
At the event, Abang Johari presented a donation of RM40,000 to the association to be used for four areas – Saribas, Kabong, Beting Maro and Kalaka.
Association chairman, Dato Abang Jemat Abang Bujang, said the association was formed only last year and membership currently numbered 300.
He hoped to have 1,000 members by year-end.
It was formed to foster good ties between those with Saribas ancestry who are living in Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu, to name a few.
Also present at the gathering was Beting Maro assemblyman Razaili Gapor.