Malaysian Social Enterprise, The Tuyang Initiative and ENZ collaborate to present the ‘Indigenous Peoples Talk Series 2023’

Through this programme, The Tuyang Initiative and Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao (ENZ) aim to provide a platform for indigenous subject matter experts to share their valuable insights and expert opinions. At the same time, they will address the critical issues impacting areas such as livelihood, sustainability, and cultural expressions of indigenous peoples in Malaysia and Aotearoa New Zealand. 

Adopting a casual online weekend chat format, not unlike the verandah chats in the longhouses in Sarawak, the series of three talks will each explore three central themes: Education & Technology, Social Entrepreneurship, and Arts & Culture. Each panel will showcase a distinguished lineup of speakers, including indigenous academics, activists, social entrepreneurs, researchers, contemporary artists, and cultural practitioners. 

The programme commenced on Sunday 13 August, linking with the International Day of the World Indigenous Peoples, globally observed on Wednesday 9 August. The inaugural session was opened by Juvita Tatan Wan, co-founder of the Tuyang Initiative, and featured esteemed speakers Prof. Dato’ Dr. Bahari Belaton (University Malaysia Sabah), Dr. Welyne Jeffrey Jehom (University of Malaya), Dr. James Alin (University Malaysia Sabah), and Dr. Hazel Abraham (AUT – New Zealand) discussing the Empowerment of Indigenous Communities through education and technology. The virtual event was livestreamed on The Tuyang Initiative and New Zealand High Commission in Kuala Lumpur’s Facebook pages, the recording can be viewed here. 

Speaking about the collaboration with The Tuyang Initiative, Ben Burrowes, ENZ’s Regional Director (Asia) states that the effort reflects our commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding and knowledge exchange, providing a platform for indigenous voices from Malaysia and Aotearoa New Zealand to come together.  

“Through these engaging panel discussions, we aim to celebrate the rich diversity of indigenous cultures, explore innovative ways to empower indigenous communities, and promote sustainable practices that ensure the preservation of their invaluable heritage. We believe that this series will contribute significantly to enhancing global awareness and appreciation for the unique contributions of indigenous peoples in shaping a more inclusive and interconnected world."  

The second panel discussion on Social Entrepreneurship will be held on September 24, 2023, while the final discussion on Arts & Culture is scheduled for October 29, 2023.  You can view these here.

About The Tuyang Initiative: 

The Tuyang Initiative is an accredited, community-led social enterprise working with Dayak (Borneo indigenous) communities in the inclusive development of talents, products and services in areas of cultural heritage through strategic industry partnerships. Its goals are to empower the communities in generating meaningful livelihood and driving cultural continuity. The organization is based in Miri, Sarawak (Borneo -– Malaysia). 
 
More info www.thetuyang.com