KUCHING: Datuk Mutang Tagal's appointment as the new Dewan Negara president brings great honour and pride to Sarawak's Dayak community, particularly the Lun Bawang, says the Dayak Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI).
Its secretary-general Libat Langub said Mutang's appointment was historic as he was the first Dayak to hold the post.
"On behalf of DCCI, I would like to congratulate him on his appointment," he said in a statement on Monday (Feb 19).
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Mutang, a Lun Bawang from Lawas in northern Sarawak, was sworn in as a Senator and appointed president of the Upper House in Kuala Lumpur on Monday afternoon.
Libat said Mutang, a lawyer by training, fit the job well and was qualified to carry out the duties of a Speaker.
He said Mutang's mild-mannered demeanour and wide knowledge in politics, business and socioeconomic matters would contribute towards sustaining and enhancing the quality of proceedings in the Dewan Negara.
"He is a family man and a hardworking man from a humble kampung background.
"I know in his heart he loves and cares about this country and he wants to do what is right. Hopefully he will fulfill his oath of office well," he added.
Orang Ulu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OUCCI) secretary-general Osart Jallong also congratulated Mutang, who is the chamber's president, on his appointment.
"We are most proud and deeply grateful to the state and federal governments for the appointment," he said in a statement.
He hoped that Mutang could continue to lead OUCCI although he was now the Senate president, as his continued leadership would enable the chamber to bring Orang Ulu entrepreneurs to greater heights.
According to Osart, Mutang inspired OUCCI members to "do business unusual" by disrupting the status quo and embracing a new mindset for a better future.
"Mutang emanates a positive vibe, has a warm personality and shares his knowledge freely. He is highly respected within OUCCI, DCCI and business circles," he added.
