Organisers lauded for successful hosting of Kapit Peace Agreement 1924 seminar
KAPIT (Dec 9): Works Minister Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi has attributed the successful hosting of a seminar on Kapit Peace Agreement 1924, which concluded last weekend. Taking place at the civic centre here, the two-day session was a key programme run in connection with the 100th anniversary celebration of the peace treaty, which was signed on Nov 16, 1924
Nanta, who is Kapit MP, credited the success to the organising team led by Deputy Digital Minister and Hulu Rajang MP Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong.
Nanta also extended his appreciation to all the speakers, including the organising committee’s advisor Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Leonard Linggi Jugah and former federal minister Tan Sri Datuk Amar Leo Moggie Irok.
“This seminar has reminded us of an essential truth – peace does not arise by chance; rather, it is carefully nurtured through dialogues, trust, and collective efforts.
“By examining the history of peacekeeping in 1924, it allows us to better understand the far-reaching consequences of decisions made in the aftermath of conflict.
“The lessons from that era still resonate with us today. They teach us that peace is not merely the absence of conflict, but the presence of justice, inclusivity and shared responsibility.
“By understanding the successes and shortcomings of 1924 peace agreement, we are able to equip ourselves with the wisdom to approach modern challenges with greater insight and resolve.
“Why is this seminar important? Kapit, with its diverse communities living in harmony, stands as a beacon of what can be achieved when people prioritise peace.
“We must remain vigilant against the forces that divide us. This seminar has underscored the importance of proactive peace-building, which includes learning from history to avoid repeating its mistakes,” said Nanta in his speech for the closing ceremony.
He also called upon everyone to regard peace as ‘both a gift and a responsibility’.
“By reflecting on our history, embracing dialogue, and committing to collective action, we honour not just the lessons of Kapit Peace Agreement 1924, but also the hopes of future generations.
“Let us move forward as ambassadors of peace, armed with the understanding that every conversation, every compromise and every act of kindness, shapes the world we live in,” elaborated.
Nanta later proposed for the next celebration, in five years’ time, to be held at Sungai Asap Resettlement Scheme.
“Although the actual peace agreement was inked in Kapit in 1924, the hosting of its anniversary celebration can be held at elsewhere, so as to remind us the importance of peace in shaping communities all over Sarawak,” he explained.
A total of eight papers were delivered throughout the seminar, through presentations by Linggi, Leo Moggie, Prof Poline Bala, Dr Dave Lumenta, Dr Peter Mulok Kedit, Dr Bernard Sellato, Belaga assemblyman Datuk Liwan Lagang and Prof Datu Dr Neilson Ilan Mersat.
-Agency
