By Geryl Ogilvy
KUCHING, Feb 21: The Chinese community, as major players in the state’s commerce and industry, has a big role to play in the government’s effort to strengthen the economy.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg assured that his administration was always willing to listen to the needs of the business community and implement measures to increase the ease of doing business, such as doing away with red tape and unnecessary procedures.
“I trust that our Chinese friends will continue to support the government’s effort to strengthen our economic position with their resources, domestic and international influence, as well as networking.
“A more robust domestic economy should be good news to our Chinese friends, who are involved in many kinds of businesses and services,” he said at the 2019 Chap Goh Mei Festival at India Street Pedestrian Mall here yesterday evening.
His text-of-speech was read out by Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
In light of the festival’s theme ‘A Celebration of Prosperity in Diversity’, Abang Johari said the state’s multicultural society and unity were invaluable assets and must be safeguarded at all times.
“We have heard or seen a lot of things happening in other parts of the country that only serve to divide and segregate the society along racial and religious lines.
“We are proud that Sarawak is a place where people can understand and respect each other and be able to live in a society where unity is of paramount importance to our common good and overall well-being.”
He pointed out that the harmonious relations among the people of all races had transformed the state capital into a model city for the promotion of unity and progressiveness.
Minister of Local Government and Housing Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian and Kuching North City Hall (DBKU) mayor Datuk Abang Abdul Wahap Abang Julai were also present at the celebration. — DayakDaily
