‘Our tebu is still sweet’: Tun Jugah’s son reflects on Sarawak, Malaysia at 63

On September 16, 1963, while history was being made in Kuching, a young Leonard Linggi Tun Jugah was in his hometown of Nanga Gaat, Kapit, participating in a fishing and hunting expedition. Upon hearing about Malaysia's proclamation through radio broadcasts and newspaper reports, he made sure he did not miss the historic moment.

This interview, conducted on Malaysia Day, highlights his father's role in the formation of Malaysia. Tun Jugah Barieng, a prominent Iban leader, was present at the Central Padang to witness the event alongside other state leaders. Linggi recounted how his father played a crucial part in building support for Malaysia, gathering 51 Iban headmen and chairing a conference where the Iban of the Rajang Valley decided to support the formation.

He also mentioned that his father was convinced that without the conference's support, the Cobbold Commission Report would have been different. Reflecting on Malaysia's progress 63 years later, Linggi acknowledged that security concerns have largely diminished, but more development efforts are needed, especially for Sarawak. He emphasized that Malaysia Day signifies not only the nation's past but also its future, urging Malaysians to focus on the well-being of its people and the country's progress.