Harness ICT to learn, spread knowledge in arts, traditions, Dayak youths encouraged

SIBU: Young Dayaks are encouraged to harness information and communications technology (ICT) in learning and spreading knowledge in arts and traditions.

In highlighting this, Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said in the past, one had to undertake ‘belelang’ (quest), and spend many years just to acquire new knowledge from a guru in a faraway place.

“But today, the concept of ‘belelang’ is no longer in use for this purpose.

“Today, we can use online platforms such as Google Meet or Webinar to learn about the arts and traditions. Technology has made it possible for us to meet online, despite our distance from one another,” he spoke at the virtual closing ceremony of the online classes on Iban arts and traditions, conducted by Sarawak Dayak Iban Academy recently.

On the programme, Uggah commended Asadia for running such online classes especially during this time of the Covid-19 pandemic, and he called upon the Internet-savvy younger generation and other Dayak non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to follow suit.

“The Sarawak government is always supportive of preserving and promoting not just Iban or Dayak traditions, but those of other races as well,” he said.

Uggah also expressed his hope for the Dayak elders and those well-versed in the community’s traditions to share their knowledge with the younger generation so as to keep this heritage alive.

He said they should emulate Nichol Ragai Lang, who was willing to learn modern technology to teach in one of Asadia online classes.

Ragai, 85, is an expert in Iban oral traditions.

At the ceremony, Uggah announced a RM20,000 grant for Asadia, in addition to the RM12,000 that he presented in September.

Meanwhile, Asadia head Mabong Unggang said the academy would plan an attempt to enter the Malaysia Book of Records by staging the longest ‘taboh’ (Iban drum) performance in May next year.

In this regard, Uggah advised Mabong to make proper planning so that financial assistance could be arranged for Asadia.