Dayak activist celebrates diversity

Strength in unity: Rita (second from right) and her Sarawakian pals will join the walk on Sunday.

KUALA LUMPUR: Rita Elisha Mering is one Sarawakian who will not let distance or difference divide Malaysians.

Since founding the Dayak Aspiration Association in October 2014, the Miri-born 39-year-old has been working hard to empower the community in nation-building.

“We have organised projects such as the Borneo Sports Carnival to bring together not only Malaysians from Sarawak and Sabah living in the peninsula but also from other states,” she said.

She added that through such efforts the Dayak community is gaining a name for themselves and having their voices heard.

To Rita, who works at the International Trade and Industry Ministry here, there is no place like home – Malaysia.

“My pastor once said ‘there is no better time but now, there is no better place than Malaysia’ and the quote has been etched in my mind.

“We are unique in a way as Malaysia comprises people from diverse cultures living together.

“It is through moderation and the ability to find a balance in life that we are able to live together as one nation,” she said.

Towards this end, Rita feels that some Malaysians need to take a chill pill when it comes to sensitive issues.

“Some people are being judgmental over petty matters when we can laugh them off.

“We live and breathe the same air despite our differences in religion and ethnicity.

“We should treat each other like family,” she added.

Not surprisingly, Rita, together with some of her Sarawakian friends, are all geared up for the Anak-Anak Malaysia Walk here this Sunday.