MIRI: The Kiput community has officially been recognised as one of Sarawak's Bumiputera groups following amendments to the Federal Constitution and the Sarawak Interpretation Ordinance.

Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department (Labour, Immigration, and Project Monitoring), Datuk Gerawat Gala, hailed this recognition as a significant milestone for the Kiput people, securing their equal status alongside other Bumiputera communities under Malaysian law.

He stressed the importance of safeguarding the Kiput community’s cultural heritage, including their traditions and language, to preserve their identity for future generations.

“Our identity as the Kiput people will be lost if we neglect our culture, traditions, and language,” he emphasised during a press conference following the Adiit Mucuu’t Kiput Charity Dinner at Eastwood Valley Golf & Country Club on Friday.

During the event, Datuk Gerawat also highlighted the upcoming Adiit Mucuu’t Kiput Festival in 2025, which will be the first of its kind. The festival aims to showcase and promote the Kiput’s distinctive culture.

“The festival aligns with Sarawak’s tourism strategy, which is centred around the Culture, Adventure, Nature, Food, and Festival (CANFF) theme,” he added.

To support the festival, Datuk Gerawat announced a personal contribution of RM50,000, which was joined by several other representatives.

He further encouraged the Lakiput Association to seek additional funding from the Sarawak government to ensure the success of the event.

The evening also saw the official unveiling of the Lakiput Association of Sarawak’s logo, as well as a recognition session honouring senior citizens and retirees from the Kiput community for their contributions.

Among the distinguished guests were Sarawak Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew, Miri City Mayor and Pujut Assemblyman, Adam Yii Siew Sang, Member of Parliament for Baram, Dato Anyi Ngau, Acting Resident of Miri Division, Juat Ubit, Marudi District Officer, Rose Edward Tarang and President of the Lakiput Association of Sarawak, Dr Gabriel Karl Wong.-UKASnews