65 Students Inspired at Program Randau Motivasi BMBEF 2024 in Kampung Sungai Engkabang B

SERIAN, 18 July 2026 – A total of 65 students from SK Semukoi, SK Telagus, SK Kerangan, SK Balai Ringin and SMK Balai Ringin participated in the Program Randau Motivasi Tabung Pendidikan Barbara Mendu Bay (BMBEF) 2024, organised by Sarakup Indu Dayak Sarawak (SIDS) at Kampung Sungai Engkabang B, Serian.

The programme aimed to motivate rural students to pursue higher education, broaden their understanding of career opportunities, particularly in STEM, and increase awareness of scholarships and financial assistance available to support their educational journey.

The programme was officiated by YBhg. Dato Ir. Alice Jawan Empaling, Chairperson of SIDS, while Tuai Rumah Untan anak Tunga welcomed participants to the longhouse. Puan Cherry Linda Keripin, Trustee and Coordinator of the Barbara Mendu Bay Education Fund, delivered the opening address, emphasising the importance of education in transforming lives and empowering rural communities.

Participants attended three informative sessions delivered by distinguished speakers. Dr. Carolina Sandra Giang from the Dayak Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) shared insights on career pathways and building a successful future. Ms. Shalene Durie, Deputy Secretary-General of the Sarawak Dayak Graduate Association (SDGA), introduced students to STEM education and its growing opportunities. Mr. Rudy Ujang from Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Sarawak concluded the programme with a presentation on scholarships, education loans and financial assistance available to students. The programme also featured an interactive question-and-answer session, followed by the presentation of souvenirs, contributions and a fellowship lunch.

Among the distinguished guests present were Encik Salang Bana, Headmaster of SK Telagus; Stanley Ngawah, Headmaster of SK Kerangan; Puan Pura Entalang, Headmistress of SK Semukoi; Puan Jesyline anak Budin, YDP PIBG SK Semukoi; and Puan Tania Naggelas, Senior Assistant of SK Telagus.

The event also brought together representatives from SK Semukoi, SK Telagus, SK Kerangan, Kampung Sungai Engkabang A and Kampung Sungai Engkabang B, Tuai Rumah from surrounding longhouses, PIBG representatives, parents, SIDS Headquarters Exco members, SIDS Pampang Kuching unit representatives, and the invited speakers.

Through initiatives such as the Program Randau Motivasi, SIDS and the Barbara Mendu Bay Education Fund remain committed to nurturing the aspirations of rural youth by providing knowledge, encouragement and access to educational opportunities that will help shape the next generation of leaders.