Sarawak needs to have specific demographic data on ethnic population in the state, said Deputy Health Minister Lukanisman Awang Sauni.

He said the data is crucial for detailed planning of ethnic development.

“We do not have data specific on ethnicity. This specific data is necessary to empower the development of our culture,” he said in his address at Sarawak Kayan Association’s 8th Triennial General Meeting (TGM) here on Sunday.

Also present were Telang Usan assemblyman Dennis Ngau who is the association’s president, and paramount chief for the Orang Ulu in Baram Temenggong Elizabeth Deng.

Lukanisman, who is Sibuti MP, felt the need for an appropriate mechanism to be in place in an effort to further dignify ethnic culture in Sarawak.

“We need an appropriate mechanism to promote each ethnic culture. This can be done through the organising of activities such as the festival of ‘Makan Tahun’ which is unique to the Kedayan,” he said.

Therefore, he urged the association to come up with a unique ethnic activity to be promoted.

In addition to promoting ethnic culture, he said the activities could further serve as a platform for ethnic-based associations to approach the community.

Lukanisman also agreed with a suggestion Dennis made earlier for the association to establish more branches.

“There may be Kayans in Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah or abroad. Therefore, it is necessary to establish more branches or clubs to preserve the Kayan culture,” he said.