MARUDI: A total of seven penghulu and one pemanca were appointed from among the Penan community as their representatives in Ulu Baram.


Dauk (fifth right) presents a traditional ‘parang’ as a memento to Dennis as others look on.

Telang Usan assemblyman Dennis Ngau Jok said their appointment was proof that the government never neglected the minority race.

The newly appointed penghulu are Apek Bala from Long Beruang, Juwin Lihan from Long Win, Ajang Kiew from Long Sayan, Tebaran Siden from Long Balau, Dauk Suok from Long Jekitan, Kaleng Lenap from Long Lobang, John Bong from Long Main. The pemanca is Henneser Uning Bong from Long Lamei.

Previously, the Penan community had only two penghulu, added Ngau.

“Having seven penghulu and a pemanca shows that the Penan community is on par in terms of leadership with other races, especially among the Orang Ulu group,” he said yesterday during the ‘Meet the People’ programme at Long Jekitan, Sungai Silat in Upper Baram.

The programme was attended by some 200 people, not only from the village but also the three nearby Penan settlements – Long Bee, Ba Purau and Long Tikan.

Long Jekitan is a Penan settlement about one and half hour by flight from Miri.

It has a population of nearly 400.

Dennis described the appointments as a milestone and achievement for the community.

“Thus, Penan folks should open up to transformation not only in terms of leadership but also infrastructure development.

“We cannot reject or stop development, as it is only a matter of time for development to come to our village. Be it this week, next year or 10 years to come,” he stressed.

He advised the Penans not to be left out by other races, while reminding them that the appointment of the new leaders would bring them closer to the government.

“Having closer and direct relation with the government through the leaders, more voices of the community will be heard especially in asking for infrastructure development and basic facilities,” he said.

Therefore, he told them to unite and accept transformation for their own good and growth of their community.

“You must be resilient in facing challenges and boost your income for a better living standard and bright future for the young generation which is only possible through transformation,” he added.

The government has built a primary school and a clinic for the community in Long Jekitan.

Among those at the gathering were Penghulu Dauk Suok, Penghulu Ajang Wan of Akah Patah and councillor Joseph Jarius Lado.