KUCHING – The Premier of Sarawak today officiated the Opening Ceremony of the DBNA Community Hostel in conjunction with the 70th Anniversary Celebration of the Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA).
In his keynote address, the Premier announced an additional allocation of RM4 million to ensure the completion of the DBNA Community Hostel, raising the total project funding to RM20 million. The funds will cover outstanding requirements such as furniture and essential equipment that have yet to be purchased.
“As informed by Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, the previous allocation of RM16 million was found to be insufficient. Therefore, I approved an additional RM4 million as proof of the government’s commitment and our strong economic standing,” said the Premier.
He further emphasised that the newly completed hostel will not only provide temporary accommodation for DBNA members and students visiting Kuching, but also serve as a hub for the Dayak Bidayuh community to strengthen unity and cultural ties.
“I am very pleased to see this nine-storey building standing proudly at a strategic location in Kuching. It symbolises both development and the spirit of unity within the Bidayuh community,” he added.
DBNA now owns three major facilities, including a multipurpose hall capable of hosting 800 people for conferences, and an iconic ‘Baruk’ that functions as both an activity centre and cultural landmark. The association also plans to transform the ‘Baruk’ into a Bidayuh Heritage Gallery, envisioned as a new tourism attraction and research centre on Bidayuh culture and history.
The ceremony was marked as a milestone in reinforcing the partnership between the Sarawak Government and the Bidayuh community, while celebrating DBNA’s 70 years of contributions towards advancing the interests and welfare of the Bidayuh people.
Also present were the Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development Sarawak and DBNA Advisor, Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn; Deputy Ministers; Members of Parliament and State Assembly; and DBNA President, Datu Ik Pahon Anak Joyik. – Sarawakku