Kapit Marks 100 Years Of Peace With Grand Centenary Celebration

KUCHING, Dec 27 (Bernama) – Kapit, a town in central Sarawak, recently celebrated the 100th anniversary of the historic peace-making ceremony held in 1924. The milestone was marked by a series of events from Dec 1 to 8, culminating in a grand celebration on the final day.

The ceremony, which ended years of tribal warfare and division, paved the way for lasting peace and unity in the region. Distinguished guests, including Yang Dipertua Negeri of Sarawak Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, attended the commemorative events.

The Tun Jugah Foundation, in a statement, highlighted the chaotic era before the Brookes administration, noting the conflicts often arose over spiritual beliefs, social status, territorial disputes and resources. Rivalries existed both between and within ethnic groups, exacerbating the unrest.

It said under James Brooke’s rule starting in 1841, pacification tactics were introduced to quell uprisings and resistance movements. These efforts included symbolic peace ceremonies featuring exchanges of valuables and acts of reconciliation, such as the killing of pigs.

“The Brookes administration faced serious opposition from the local leaders who fought with courage and resilience, seeking to preserve their traditions and autonomy. The Brookes resorted to pacification tactics as a way to quell uprisings, rebellions, and resistance movements,” it said.

The Brookes also undertook punitive expeditions to restore order, including the Katibas, Ulu Ai, and Great Kayan expeditions. A notable effort, the Kayan Expedition, involved over 15,000 fighters using 500 longboats. These missions laid the groundwork for the eventual peace ceremony in Kapit.

The pivotal peace ceremony on Nov 16, 1924, marked the end of conflicts among the Iban, Kayan, Kenyah, and Kajang communities.

Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, chairman of the Tun Jugah Foundation, described the agreement as a beacon for future progress in the region.

Abang Johari echoed this sentiment, emphasising the agreement’s role in fostering unity among Sarawak’s diverse communities. He noted that Kapit’s development, including plans for a modern square, symbolises the region’s progress rooted in this historic accord.

“This agreement fosters friendship and cooperation among Sarawak’s people, enabling us to work together for the betterment of future generations,” Abang Johari said.

An International Seminar on the Celebration of Peace, held on Dec 6 and 7, explored the 1924 peace agreement’s impact on communal relations, development, and shared histories. Participants reflected on past successes and lessons to address modern challenges.

State Deputy Minister for Utility and Telecommunication Datuk Liwan Lagang called for renewed efforts to uphold values of inclusivity, unity, and diversity, reflecting the 'Segulai Sejalai' (together in unity) spirit cherished by the Orang Ulu community.

As Kapit enters its second century, the legacy of the 1924 peace agreement continues to guide its journey.

The anniversary celebration served as a powerful reminder of the enduring importance of peace, unity, and collaboration.

The Tun Jugah Foundation underscored the commitment to ensuring these values remain central to Sarawak’s future, shaping the region for generations to come.

-- BERNAMA