BENGGANG – A community gathering at Rumah Panjang TR Barau Unji in Benggang, Betong, brought local leaders and residents together in a ceremony focused on unity, tradition, and leadership succession.
The event took place on Sunday, 15 March 2026 as part of the People’s Leaders Programme, an initiative aimed at strengthening relationships between government representatives and the longhouse community.
Programmes like this give leaders the chance to meet residents face to face, hear local concerns, and strengthen the sense of community.
Guests arrived to the sound of a traditional Ngajat dance before the programme continued with prayers and speeches from several community figures.
Among them were Tuai Rumah Barau, Penghulu Sebastian Kadam Randy, and Pemanca Norman Ngumbang. Each speaker stressed the importance of preserving cultural traditions while working together to support community progress.
One of the main moments of the ceremony was the official appointment of Penghulu Sebastian Kadam Randy. He received his certificate of appointment during the event, along with several newly appointed Tuai Rumah.
The ceremony also honoured former Penghulu George Gerrie, who received a souvenir in recognition of his years of service to the community.
Outside the formal programme, the gathering included activities organised by residents. The Women’s Bureau held a donation drive, while a sponsored song session brought a lively mood to the longhouse.
These activities reflected the longhouse tradition where official ceremonies blend with social interaction and shared celebration.
The event also featured a speech by YB Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu, Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Sarawak and Assemblyman for N.36 Layar.
He thanked the organisers for their effort and praised the warm hospitality shown by the community. According to him, gatherings like this strengthen unity while supporting local development.
In his remarks, Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to continued progress across Betong Division.
“Together continue the development of Betong Division. Betong towards prosperity and well-being in diversity,” he said.
The programme closed with hope that similar initiatives continue in the future, strengthening the connection between leaders and residents while supporting Sarawak’s vision of stability, progress, and shared prosperity.
The gathering reflected the spirit of Begulai Sejalai, Jaga Sarawak, Intu Sarawak, highlighting the shared goal of building a harmonious and thriving community.
