Dayak political fragmentation weakens collective strength, says PBDS leader
Dr John Brian Anthony
KUCHING (June 11): The Dayak community in Sarawak remains politically fragmented despite being the largest indigenous population, said Dr John Brian Anthony.
The Parti Bansa Dayak Sarawak (PBDS) permanent chairman pointed out that internal divisions, divergent party affiliations, and historical distrust have weakened the Dayak community's collective strength.
'Many Dayak leaders hold positions across various political platforms, but the absence of a cohesive agenda has diluted our impact at both the state and federal levels,' he said in a statement today.
According to him, Dayak unity is critical for asserting their political relevance, protecting indigenous rights, and ensuring equitable participation in Malaysia's development.
He added that without unity, the Dayak community's voice remains scattered, and key issues—such as native customary rights (NCR) land, rural development, education, and fair economic inclusion—struggle to gain proper attention or redress.
'As a party founded to uphold and champion the voice of the Dayak community, PBDS affirms that political unity among the Dayak (community) is no longer merely desirable—it is essential for our survival, relevance, and rightful place in national progress,' he said.
John reiterated that PBDS is committed to re-establishing a common platform for Dayak leaders across party lines to collaborate on shared concerns.
He also said PBDS looks forward to fostering reconciliation and dialogue to heal past divisions and rebuild intra-community trust, and to draft a 'Dayak Political Charter' as a blueprint for unity, outlining common principles, goals, and policy commitments.
'A politically united Dayak community strengthens Malaysia's democracy and national unity. It guarantees better representation for Borneo's indigenous population and reinforces the spirit of inclusion and fairness in policymaking,' he said.
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