PBDS calls for official recognition of Dayak as distinct racial category

The Parti Bansa Dayak Sarawak (PBDS) has launched a formal appeal to government authorities to recognise Dayak as an official race classification, moving away from the current practice of grouping the community under miscellaneous categories in government forms and databases.

Currently, Dayak citizens are classified under 'Others' in various administrative and statistical systems, a designation the party contends fails to adequately represent the distinct identity and demographic significance of the community. PBDS representatives argue that the classification inadequately reflects the Dayak population's cultural heritage, historical presence, and socio-economic standing within Malaysia.

The call for official recognition addresses a longstanding administrative gap that has affected data collection, policy formulation, and resource allocation affecting Dayak communities. By establishing Dayak as a formal racial category alongside existing classifications, the party contends that government agencies would be better positioned to develop targeted programmes and accurately measure community needs.

This move aligns with broader efforts across Sarawak to strengthen institutional recognition of indigenous groups and ensure their distinct identities are properly reflected in national systems. The proposal requires coordination between state and federal authorities responsible for racial classification frameworks.