KAPIT: The state government will develop Kapit Square to commemorate the Kapit Peace Agreement 1924, which ended inter-ethnic conflicts between the Iban, Kayan, Kenyah, and other Orang Ulu communities.
Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg said the square would be built at the exact location where the peace agreement was signed on Nov 16, 1924, in the presence of the Third Rajah of Sarawak, Sir Charles Vyner Brooke, and tribal leaders.
He added that Kapit Square would serve as a green space with significant historical value.
"As such, we will have to modernise this area as a symbol of unity in Kapit as well as in Sarawak," Abang Johari said at a ceremony to mark the 100th anniversary of the Kapit Peace Agreement signing ceremony.
He added that he will discuss with Kapit member of Parliament Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, who is also the federal Works Minister, and the Kapit community leaders, on the construction of the Kapit Square.
He said Kapit will become a significant place in the interior with the construction of the square that will have modern facilities.
The premier said that the peace agreement is very significant for Sarawak to nurture the spirit of unity and friendship among the people of various ethnicities.
"With this kind of spirit, we can work together for our benefit, as well as for the present and future generations," he added.
He also said the peace agreement has become the foundation for the lasting peace and harmony that the people enjoy today.
Nanta, in his speech, said the peace agreement has opened the space for the unification of the ancestors until we can celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Kapit Peace Agreement being signed.
"The historic agreement took place in the ground of Kapit Fort, now known as Sylvia Fort, and was also witnessed by the Rajah Brooke and ethnic leaders at the time.
"The agreement became the starting point of peace in Sarawak although not all conflicts could be stopped immediately," he said, adding that many disputes were settled and gradually eliminated the various grudges.
He said the wars and prolonged conflicts before that had greatly affected social and economic stability.
"Therefore, diplomacy to end the conflict proved to be the best approach until the leaders of the communities agreed to end the conflicts," Nanta said.
