Latest news with #PBDS
Malay Mail
3 days ago
- Politics
- Malay Mail
PBDS eyes comeback at next Sarawak state poll, mulls possible Opposition pact
SIBU, June 29 — Parti Bansa Dayak Sarawak (PBDS) is preparing to contest in the next state election by targeting constituencies deemed suitable, based on grassroots support and the aspirations of its members. PBDS president Mejar (Rtd) Moses Ripai said the party is in the process of identifying potential candidates who meet its internal criteria and are capable of serving the people effectively. He said this during the PBDS Ngiling Bidai gathering held at his residence in Taman Permai here last night, which was attended by over 100 members and their families. Among the senior leaders present were deputy president Julius Enchana, secretary Kipli Ayom, Selangau PBDS chief Datuk Joseph Entulu Belaun, Kanowit chief Datuk Paduka Michael Lias, Saratok chief Dato Linang Chapum, PBDS Orang Ulu representative Dr Elli Luhat and PBDS Bidayuh representative Dr Bayang Teron. 'We have always remained committed to serving the people, even if our efforts are not always publicised. What we do on the ground does not need to be exaggerated, let our actions speak quietly but meaningfully,' said Moses in his address. He called on members to continue fostering unity and mutual understanding within the party, as these values are crucial to strengthening PBDS as it moves forward politically. Touching on potential collaborations, Moses said PBDS remains open to working with opposition parties, provided such cooperation is built on mutual respect and aligned with the party's core values. 'We welcome cooperation with any like-minded parties, as long as there is sincerity and respect for our principles,' he said. The event, held in conjunction with the PBDS 'Ngiling Bidai' Program, featured traditional elements such as the miring ceremony, Ngajat dance and the symbolic cutting of the 'ranyai' tree. The strong turnout by the party's top leaders was seen as a signal of PBDS' intention to revitalise its grassroots network and consolidate its position ahead of the next electoral contest. — The Borneo Post
Borneo Post
3 days ago
- Politics
- Borneo Post
PBDS gears up for next state election, eyes suitable seats based on grassroots support
Moses (fifth from left) joins top PBDS leaders in the 'bebiau' recital during the miring ceremony at the Ngiling Bidai gathering. SIBU (June 29): Parti Bansa Dayak Sarawak (PBDS) is preparing to contest in the next state election by targeting constituencies deemed suitable, based on grassroots support and the aspirations of its members. PBDS president Mejar (Rtd) Moses Ripai said the party is in the process of identifying potential candidates who meet its internal criteria and are capable of serving the people effectively. He said this during the PBDS Ngiling Bidai gathering held at his residence in Taman Permai here last night, which was attended by over 100 members and their families. Among the senior leaders present were deputy president Julius Enchana, secretary Kipli Ayom, Selangau PBDS chief Datuk Joseph Entulu Belaun, Kanowit chief Datuk Paduka Michael Lias, Saratok chief Dato Linang Chapum, PBDS Orang Ulu representative Dr Elli Luhat and PBDS Bidayuh representative Dr Bayang Teron. 'We have always remained committed to serving the people, even if our efforts are not always publicised. What we do on the ground does not need to be exaggerated, let our actions speak quietly but meaningfully,' said Moses in his address. He called on members to continue fostering unity and mutual understanding within the party, as these values are crucial to strengthening PBDS as it moves forward politically. Touching on potential collaborations, Moses said PBDS remains open to working with opposition parties, provided such cooperation is built on mutual respect and aligned with the party's core values. 'We welcome cooperation with any like-minded parties, as long as there is sincerity and respect for our principles,' he said. The event, held in conjunction with the PBDS 'Ngiling Bidai' Program, featured traditional elements such as the miring ceremony, Ngajat dance and the symbolic cutting of the 'ranyai' tree. The strong turnout by the party's top leaders was seen as a signal of PBDS' intention to revitalise its grassroots network and consolidate its position ahead of the next electoral contest. grassroots lead Moses Ripai Parti Bansa Dayak Sarawak state election
Borneo Post
18-06-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
‘Appointment of community leaders must be shielded from political interference'
Major (R) Moses Ripai SIBU (June 18): Parti Bansa Dayak Sarawak (PBDS) firmly asserts that elected representatives and political parties must not interfere in the appointment of community leaders, especially Tuai Rumah, across Sarawak. Its president Major (Rtd) Moses Ripai said the appointment of these leaders must be based on traditional customs, community consensus and the character and competence of individuals, not on political affiliation or party loyalty. 'Community leaders are the backbone of indigenous governance, and must be shielded from political manipulation,' he said in a statement. Moses said PBDS called for a clear separation between political interests and cultural institutions, and urged the government to respect the rights of each community in choosing its own leaders independently. In anticipation of the upcoming Sarawak state elections, he also invited all opposition parties in Sarawak to form a united en bloc pact. He said the time has come to set aside individual party interests, and work collectively towards meaningful change for the people of Sarawak. 'A fragmented opposition only serves to strengthen the status quo. A united front can deliver a more effective challenge to the ruling coalition, foster a more competitive democratic process, and ensure the voices of rural and marginalised communities are heard and respected.' Moses said PBDS was ready to engage in open, respectful discussions with any opposition party committed to justice, indigenous rights and fair governance, and like-minded political parties to share the same struggles and visions. He said en bloc opposition parties would be a strong opposition pact in the state, and would chart the future of a new era for Sarawak if they were able to take over the government. He said the native customary rights (NCR) issue has always been the chief issue of previous and present PBDS. Moses also reminded all PBDS members, supporters and the public that any statement issued using the party's name is null and void, unless it has been officially approved and released by the party president, information chief, or supreme council. He said this protocol exists to protect the integrity, unity and public credibility of the party. 'Unauthorised statements do not reflect the party's official stance, and must not be regarded as the representative of PBDS,' he said, referring to cases of a certain individual who used the party's name for making statements recently. He added disciplinary actions may be taken against individuals who issue or circulate unauthorised statements on behalf of PBDS.
Borneo Post
15-06-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Get your own platform, leave Dayak struggle to us, PBDS tells PBK
Dr John Brian Anthony KUCHING (June 16): Parti Bumi Kenyalang (PBK) ought to stop leveraging on the Dayak struggle but instead focus on their own platform and objectives, said Dr John Brian Anthony. The Parti Bansa Dayak Sarawak (PBDS) permanent chairman said the party took note of recent comments and gestures made by PBK on social media, apparently expressing support for certain positions already taken by PBDS. While acknowledging PBK's right to comment on public matters, he said it is PBDS' unwavering mission to represent, protect, and empower the Dayak people politically, economically, and culturally. 'Our struggle is rooted in the history, identity, and aspirations of the Dayak community, and we have paid the price of marginalisation to uphold our integrity and independence. 'We respectfully urge PBK and any other political entities to avoid using the Dayak cause as a political leverage point to gain popularity or score political mileage. 'If your cause is strong, let it stand on its own merit. Do not ride on the Dayak name without truly understanding or representing our struggles on the ground,' he said in a statement. John said Sarawakians deserve to see what PBK stands for in action and not merely by commenting on what other parties are doing. 'True collaboration among Sarawak-based parties must be based on mutual respect, clear boundaries, and recognition of each other's unique identity and struggles,' he added. Nevertheless, he said PBDS remains open to genuine dialogue and cooperation with any party that shares its values of justice, equity, and indigenous empowerment. However, he stressed that such cooperation must not be at the expense of the Dayak community's dignity or political autonomy. 'Let each party speak for its people, work on its mission, and be judged by its performance—not by political theatrics,' he said.
Borneo Post
11-06-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
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.
