Tajang Laing remembered for shaping Orang Ulu future, driving education, development

The late Dato Sri Bo’ Tajang Laing

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, April 24: The late Dato Sri Bo’ Tajang Laing is remembered as a towering Orang Ulu leader whose lifelong dedication to education, unity and rural development left an enduring mark on Sarawak, with his passing marking a profound loss to the State and the people of Belaga.

He died in Kuching last night at the age of 100, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of leadership, particularly in championing education, fostering unity, and advancing the development of interior communities.

In a Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) news, Deputy Minister for Utilities and Telecommunications and Belaga assemblyman Datuk Liwan Lagang described his passing as a great loss to the Orang Ulu community and Sarawak as a whole.

He said the late Tajang was a father figure to the Orang Ulu community who played a pivotal role in shaping its development trajectory.

“He was the first Kayan educator from Belaga, and among the pioneers in State leadership as a legislator and minister.

“His contributions in instilling the importance of education have inspired generations to strive for a better future,” he said in a statement today.

Meanwhile, Murum assemblyman Kennedy Chukpai Ugon described the late Tajang as a true pioneer who paved the way for leaders from rural areas to rise to the highest levels of government.

He said Tajang’s willingness to brave challenges and travel deep into the interior to connect with the people remains a source of inspiration for today’s leaders.

“His contributions laid the foundation for the progress we continue to pursue today… better roads, stronger infrastructure, improved access to education, and a more inclusive development agenda.

“More importantly, he carried the identity, dignity and aspirations of the Orang Ulu community with great pride. He reminded us that our heritage is not a limitation, but a strength,” he said.

Meanwhile, political secretary to the Premier of Sarawak Thomas Balan Bang said Sarawak has lost a visionary leader whose contributions greatly shaped its development.

He said the late Tajang’s services and sacrifices in advancing education and community development will be remembered by generations to come.

“We have lost a legend…a visionary leader. He was courageous and unafraid to make difficult decisions.

“We owe him greatly, for our achievements, our education. He fought for the greater good, and has finished his race. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” he said.

According to a family statement, his remains will be brought back to his hometown in Sungai Asap this Sunday for final respects. — DayakDaily