‘Interest in commercial farming shows Penans want development’
MIRI: The interest of the Penans in Long Leng, Baram towards commercial and modern farming prove their desire not to be left behind other communities in terms of development.
Telang Usan assemblyman Dennis Ngau said this in response to Long Leng headman Maister Lolee’s statement that the community is interested in commercial and modern farming as well as tourism and handicraft making.
“The government through various agencies and bodies, particularly the Agriculture Department, has tirelessly promoted commercial farming.
It received mixed reaction among the community in the interior, especially the Penan community,” said Dennis in his keynote address for the Penan Community Mindset Transformation Programme in Long Leng on Thursday.
“You should not look back, instead double your efforts to find ways to improve your socio economic standing.”
He also called on the Penan community not to keep to themselves.
“Mingle with other communities as this enables sharing of experience and knowledge, which helps to speed up the transformation process. Work together not only with each other, but also with other communities around you,” he said.
He stressed on the importance of education and skills training to meet future needs and demands, calling on the Penan community to ensure their children continue their studies and acquire certain skills.