Nanga Sekuau Scheme

In the mid 70's I was able to be transferred to the Methodist Secondary School to teach. My students and I had a few adventures. And one of them was to visit Nanga Sekuau Scheme, arranged by the RASCOM officers. We were delighted by the official response and transport and food were all provided.

Penghulu Imban who was brutally killed in public by the Communists

The Nanga Sekuau Scheme was designed by the Rajang Security Command (RASCOM) in the 70's to bring together several groups of Ibans from various longhouses, to settle in one huge community.

Ng Sekuau was one of the biggest to be set up in the then Third Division, along OYA Road.

In those days due to curfews etc the lives of the Ibans there were very controlled. Perhaps for the first time, they were under military control and discipline to a certain extent. They were also under surveillance most of the time as the roads were blocked at both ends. Perhaps this was good for the Iban settlers, as a protection from the communists.

I visited this model resettlement area with my 6th form students in the 70's. If we did not write in for such a visit, it would not have been a possible adventure, as bringing a group of students out to any place in the RASCOM area, we needed police clearance.

My students had a great experience, learning to ngajat, sit on the floor and eat a simple meal prepared by the few families who entertained us. Some of them used their hands to eat for the first time in their lives. but on the whole forks and spoons were provided and so were hand washing bowls.

We would like to thank the RASCOM administrative staff for the enriching adventure again.