Tenom: Persatuan Murut Sabah's (PMS) decision to seek the imposition of Sogit (customary fine) against Dewan Bahasa and Pustaka (DBP) for allowing an error regarding the Murut death ritual in Form One textbooks should serve as a lesson to others, said its President Datuk Rubin Balang. He said although the error only involves several words, it is harmful enough to the customs of the Murut tribe, especially with the books already made available in schools.
He also suggested that teachers be more sensitive and careful on such phrases so as to not repeat them.
The slaughtering of a buffalo was witnessed by DBP members comprising Datuk Abdul Adzis Abas, Asmiah Ajamain and from the Ministry of Education Zainap Derahim and Yusri Amir.
"We are grateful to God for the peaceful meeting … In fact every form of peace is translated according to the Murut customs then we are willing to forgive DBP for the mistake, "he said while addressing the sogit and peace ceremonies held at the Pulong Murut Cultural Centre, Saturday.
The slaughter of a buffalo was done and witnessed by DBP members comprising Datuk Abdul Adzis Abas, Asmiah Ajamain and from the Ministry of Education Zainap Derahim and Yusri Amir.
Last year, several associations and a Murut non-governmental organisation lodged a report following the discovery of an article in a Form One history textbook on the ritual.
PMS also discussed the matter with Murut experts from several district Native Courts, before taking action on DBP, including asking them to withdraw the textbooks from the market and apologise to the Murut community.
"Luckily, when met with Education Minister Datuk Seri Mahadzir Khalid and informing him about it … he directed his officer to apologise and solve the problem according to custom," said Rubin.
Rubin who is also Kemabong Assemblyman and Tenom Umno Chief declared the matter closed saying "the case is over…let's get together for the better future".
He also suggested for cooperation between DBP and PMS to ensure each language or Murut custom taught at schools do not deflect from its foundation.
Earlier, DBP Director-General Datuk Abdul Adzis bin Abas thanked PMS for accepting DBP's apology on behalf of the community.
In addition, they agreed to respect the peace reconciliation according to customary practices of the Murut tribe.
Adzis said DBP received a memorandum of protest. The DBP have also issued an apology published in a local daily on Oct. 30 last year. - Mail Mathew
