DUN Sarawak: The memorial archives should preserve the heritage of all communities

KUCHING, 13 Oct: The memorial archives proposed under the Sarawak State Library (Amendment) Act 2026 should include the history, traditions and experiences of communities across Sarawak including rural and rural communities to ensure their heritage is preserved for future generations.

Murum Member of the National Advisory Council (ADUN), Kennedy Chukpai Ugon said that the effort was important given that much of the historical and cultural knowledge of indigenous peoples is still passed down orally and is at risk of being lost when previous generations die.

According to him, Sarawak has an ethnic diversity with traditions, languages, formal customs and distinct historical experiences that are part of the shared identity of the people of the state.

"I hope that the memorial archives will not only focus on contributions of historical figures and major events, but also document the history and heritage of ordinary communities across the state.

"Our history belongs to all the people of Sarawak and every community has a right to recognition and to see their heritage preserved", he said.
He said this while discussing the Sarawak State Library (Amendment) Bill 2026 at the 19th Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Conference today.

Kennedy said the preservation of the heritage of the Ulu, Iban, Bidayuh and other indigenous communities should be given particular attention in terms of oral history, traditional knowledge, language, formal customs and cultural identity.

In this regard, he encouraged the Sarawak State Library to work with cultural institutions, educational institutions and community leaders to document and preserve the treasures using archival and digital technologies.

However, he said that such efforts should be implemented with respect for the cultural sensitivity and customs rights of the communities involved.

Meanwhile, Kennedy said the Sarawak State Library must continue to grow as a modern institution that is accessible and capable of meeting the needs of society, including rural residents.

"Digital library services, community approach programmes and cooperation with rural schools and educational institutions should be strengthened to ensure that children and young people in Murum, Belaga, Baram and other remote areas have equal access to learning materials and information.

"Access to science should not be determined by geographical location, instead it should be the rights and opportunities available to every citizen of Sarawak", he said.

He also hoped the government would provide adequate financial allocation to ensure effective implementation of the amendments especially in archival maintenance, digital infrastructure development, professional expertise and community engagement.