Editor’s Note: Another prominent indigenous Borneoan activist, Datuk Patinggi Andrew Ambrose Atama Katama, has joined Borneo’s Plight in Malaysia Foundation president Daniel John Jambun to convey his displeasure over Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s over-zealousness to prioritise the Palestinian interest at the expense of Malaysians.

AS the permanent representative to the United Nations (UN) for the Dayak International Organisation, I wish to address the recent discourse surrounding the remarks made by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on Peter John Jaban, a respected Sarawakian NGO leader.

It is important to remember that Jaban played a significant role during a crucial moment in our nation’s political landscape.

His advocacy for unity, particularly in rallying Borneons to support the formation of the current Federal government, cannot be understated.

It is important to remember that Jaban has been a tireless advocate for the rights and awareness of the Indigenous peoples of Borneo.

As the founder of Radio Free Sarawak and Radio Free Malaysia, he has played a pivotal role in ensuring that crucial information reached the Indigenous peoples in the rural areas - people who were often overlooked by mainstream media.

These platforms provided a voice for the voiceless, thus enabling Pakatan Harapan’s (PH) messages to be heard by rural communities and grassroots Indigenous peoples, especially during the time when they were the opposition a decade ago - long before Anwar Ibrahim ascended to the Prime Ministership.

The Dayak and indigenous Borneans have long been perceived as the steadfast supporters of national stability. However, times have changed. Borneoans are no longer mere “fixed deposits” to be drawn upon at convenience.

Our indigenous communities have matured politically; we are now more than ever aware of our rights and the importance of our voices in shaping the future of Malaysia.

While we may have once been content with the role of silent supporters, today, we indigenous peoples stand firm in our right to self-determination and to freely express our views without fear of being dismissed or mis-characterised.

It is worth noting that the political landscape has evolved - and with it - the expectations of Borneoans and the traditional owners of the country. The era of unquestioned allegiance has passed.

We have grown discerning, understanding that support must be earned through respect, genuine partnership, nd a shared commitment to the well-being of all Malaysians regardless of region or ethnicity.

Let us remember that the fabric of our nation is woven from the diverse threads of its people. The strength of Malaysia lies in its ability to embrace this diversity and to engage in meaningful dialogue with all its citizens, especially those left behind.

Leaders who seek the support of Borneoans in the future would do well to approach us not as a monolith but as a vibrant, dynamic community with a voice that deserves to be heard.

As we move forward, it is my hope that our leaders will take this opportunity to reflect on the importance of fostering unity through understanding rather than through division.

The memory of how Jaban - an advocate for Borneoan support of the current government - has been treated will undoubtedly shape the decisions and allegiances of the future.

In closing, I urge PM Anwar to recognise the significance of the concerns raised by Jaban and others like him.

These are not mere “small voices” to be disregarded but the resonant tones of a people who have always been - and will continue to be - integral to the heart of Borneo and the soul of Malaysia. - Aug 28, 2024

Datuk Patinggi Andrew Ambrose Atama Katama is permanent representative to the United Nations (UN) for Dayak International Organisation. 

https://focusmalaysia.my/pmx-reminded-not-to-let-his-palestinian-crusade-overwhelm-dissenting-views-of-indigenous-borneoans/