Iban author to donate books to participants of UB Iban Public Speaking Competition

KUCHING: An author of two books on Iban culture and language is encouraging those interested in public speaking to showcase their skills in the upcoming Utusan Borneo Iban Public Speaking Competition.

Steven Beti Anom, who penned ‘ Iban Culture and Tradition – The Pillars of the Community’s Strength’ and ‘Lemambang’s Code – Precursor of the Iban Alphabet’ – said he will be donating his books to the organiser and participants for their reference and as a source of inspiration.

“I was impressed by the news on the holding of the Iban public speaking competition by Utusan Borneo’s Iban language section on Oct 5 and 6 this year in Kuching.

“I think for greater awareness, the NGOs (non- governmental organisations) must come out to support this programme. We all acknowledge the importance of preserving our culture and language,” he said, adding he will have his books reprinted for the occasion.

Lemambang’s Code details the role of the ‘ Lemambang’ (noble guardians and memory keepers of the Iban people and their culture) as well as the importance of the Iban language. It also serves as a mini Iban- English dictionary useful for beginners who wish to learn and speak Iban.

Iban Culture and Tradition is written based on Beti’s and other authors’ experience and observation on Iban culture and tradition as well as on how their ancestors lived and struggled.

The preliminary stage of the competition will be held at Kingwood Hotel, Jalan Padungan here starting at 1.30pm on Oct 5. The final will be at the auditorium of the Teachers Training Institute ( IPG) Batu Lintang at 8am the following day.

The competition is divided into Under-17, Under- 35 and Open categories. The topics revolve around digital age, ICT development, preservation of culture, and development of the Iban language.

The champion in each category will receive a cash prize of RM2,500, while those placing second and third will get RM1,500 and RM1,000 respectively. Three consolation winners in each category will receive RM200.

For more information, contact Chris Bishop ( 014- 8989604), Frankie Junau ( 016- 8072129) or Watson Menjang ( 014- 8742633).

Sarawak Dayak National Union ( SDNU), Sarawak Dayak Graduates Association ( SDGA) and Sarawak Dayak Iban Association (Sadia) Kuching are supporting the competition.

The event patron is Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Datuk Amar Dr James Masing.