SIBU, Jan 21: Locals here are already in the mood for the Chinese New Year celebrations if the large crowd at the Chinese New Year Market 2022 is anything to go by.
Most households have had a subdued Chinese New Year celebration for the last two years due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Pelawan assembyman, Michael Tiang, who performed the lighting-up of 2,000 lanterns and subsequently launched the market at Sibu Gateway said that he could attest to that.
“I thought after this pandemic or lockdown where people have been staying at home, we no longer have the passion for this sort of activity but the crowd tonight proved that I was wrong. So that means that the people of Sibu want to have a bazaar like this not only for Chinese New Year but also for Hari Raya and Gawai,” he said.
The assistant minister of Public Health, Housing, and Local Government believed that with the Covid-19 situation improving now, Sibu Chinese Chamber of Commerce (SCCCI) would go on to organise similar bazaars for Hari Raya and Gawai.
He also praised the organiser for their spirit and creativity in organising the event. These include Sibu Municipal Council, Startup Entrepreneur Association Sarawak, and Sibu Chinese Chamber of Commerce (SCCCI) Youth Committee and PluxEntrepreneurs’ Incubation Hub.
“I thank the organising unit. They have done it right with passion, with the love for Sibu, and with creativity,” he said.
Tiang also advised the people not to be complacent despite the recent improvements surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic.
“I want to urge everyone here to watch out, to always wear their face masks, observe social distancing, and follow the standard operating procedures,” he advised.
Also speaking at the event was SMC chairman Clarence Ting. — DayakDaily
