Call to document Bidayuh history before it disappears

THE Sarawak State Library has been urged to document the history and cultural heritage of rural communities, particularly the Bidayuh, before valuable knowledge is lost.

Tebedu assemblyman Dr Simon Sinang Bada said much of the community’s history, customs and traditions continues to be passed down orally from one generation to another.

He warned that the passing of older generations could result in the permanent loss of historical knowledge that has never been formally recorded.

“When the older generation passes away, some of this knowledge risks disappearing with them.

“This situation deserves serious attention,” he said when debating in support of the Sarawak State Library (Amendment) Bill, 2026 at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting today (Oct 13).

Dr Simon said the Bidayuh community has a rich history encompassing traditional beliefs, languages, customs, cultural practices and ways of life.

These include stories of village settlements, community migration, traditional leadership, marriage customs, agricultural practices, traditional architecture and significant historical events.

He proposed that the Sarawak State Library expand its documentation efforts through collaboration with cultural associations, educational institutions, community leaders and local communities.

For the Bidayuh community, he suggested exploring cooperation with the Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) to collect and preserve historical materials, languages, customs and cultural heritage.

“In Tebedu itself, there are many village histories, community traditions and development experiences that deserve to be systematically documented.

“I believe such efforts will not only preserve cultural heritage but also instil pride among younger generations in their identity and origins,” he said.

Dr Simon also called for the development of a comprehensive digital archive covering the histories of different communities and regions throughout Sarawak.

He said historical documents, photographs, audio recordings, manuscripts, research materials and community records should be systematically digitised to ensure their long-term preservation.

The archive, he added, could serve as a reference for students, researchers, academics and the public.

For Tebedu, he said such an initiative would help document the development of villages, infrastructure, education, agriculture, economic activities and changes in community life.

However, he stressed that digital archiving must also consider data security, preservation of original documents, cultural sensitivities and community rights over heritage materials.

“Heritage that is not recorded may be forgotten. History that is not preserved may disappear.

“But documented history will continue to live on for future generations,” he said.