(Bintulu, 13th) Sarawak Minister of Food Industry, Primary Industries and Regional Development Dato Sri Stephen Rundi urges the public, especially during the Dayak Festival, not to drive under the influence of alcohol.
He stated that ensuring one's own safety and that of other road users should be prioritized, especially during festive periods when many people take the opportunity to visit friends and family.
"If you have been drinking, don't drive. If you realize you are not sober or unable to think clearly, do not force yourself. Otherwise, many unfortunate things may happen," he said during a speech at the 2025 Sebauh Dayak Festival celebration held at a famous restaurant in Bintulu last night.
As the assemblyman for Kemena, Rundi pointed out that he understands gatherings and feasting are part of the traditional culture during the Dayak Festival, but drunk driving can lead to serious consequences.
"Sometimes, we try to take the car keys from friends who have been drinking, but they insist they can still drive.
"In such situations, we need to have the courage to advise and take action to ensure everyone's safety," he added.
He suggested that driving tasks should be assigned to those who have not been drinking or to use alternative transportation to ensure everyone can return home safely.
"This is not about who is stronger or more capable, but about safety. Let this festival be a beautiful memory, not an unnecessary tragedy," he emphasized.
Additionally, Rundi also called on the Dayak community and all Sarawak people to celebrate the Dayak Festival with joy, responsibility, and a sense of civic duty.
He stated that ensuring one's own safety and that of other road users should be prioritized, especially during festive periods when many people take the opportunity to visit friends and family.
"If you have been drinking, don't drive. If you realize you are not sober or unable to think clearly, do not force yourself. Otherwise, many unfortunate things may happen," he said during a speech at the 2025 Sebauh Dayak Festival celebration held at a famous restaurant in Bintulu last night.
As the assemblyman for Kemena, Rundi pointed out that he understands gatherings and feasting are part of the traditional culture during the Dayak Festival, but drunk driving can lead to serious consequences.
"Sometimes, we try to take the car keys from friends who have been drinking, but they insist they can still drive.
"In such situations, we need to have the courage to advise and take action to ensure everyone's safety," he added.
He suggested that driving tasks should be assigned to those who have not been drinking or to use alternative transportation to ensure everyone can return home safely.
"This is not about who is stronger or more capable, but about safety. Let this festival be a beautiful memory, not an unnecessary tragedy," he emphasized.
Additionally, Rundi also called on the Dayak community and all Sarawak people to celebrate the Dayak Festival with joy, responsibility, and a sense of civic duty.