By DayakDaily Team
SIBU, June 3: The Sarawak government is undertaking RM9 billion worth of development projects this year while continuing to provide a wide range of assistance programmes in areas such as education and welfare, reflecting the State’s commitment to improving the well-being of its people and sustaining long-term growth.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said the Sarawak’s ability to implement such extensive development initiatives is underpinned by the political stability and social harmony enjoyed by Sarawak, which he attributed to the strong spirit of unity among its multi-ethnic communities.
He said the longhouse way of life, which emphasises togetherness and mutual respect, serves as a powerful symbol of the unity that has long been a defining strength of Sarawak society.
“A longhouse culture like this symbolises unity. When we are united, there is stability. When there is stability, there will be progress and prosperity.
“Therefore, it is crucial for us to maintain this unity and stability to ensure that we continue to advance and prosper by 2030,” he urged in a Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) news report.
He was speaking during a Gawai visit with the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Malaysia, Ouyang Yujing, to Rumah Joseph Abet in Bawang Assan today.
Dr Sim stressed that preserving unity and stability remains essential for ensuring Sarawak continues its trajectory of economic growth and development while achieving its aspirations of becoming a prosperous State by 2030.
Meanwhile, Dr Sim, who is also Sarawak Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government, said Ouyang’s visit to the longhouse during the Gawai Dayak celebrations reflects growing international recognition of Sarawak.
“The ambassador had previously visited Kuching and Miri, but chose to visit Bintulu and Sibu during this year’s Gawai season to gain a deeper understanding of Sarawak’s culture and the way of life of its people,” he said.
Dr Sim also described Gawai Dayak as more than an annual celebration, saying it plays an important role in strengthening family ties, fostering a spirit of sharing and reinforcing unity among Sarawak’s diverse communities.
Also present were Consul General ofthe People’s Republic of China in Kuching Xing Weiping, Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee, Bukit Assek assemblyman Chieng Jin Ek, Meradong assemblyman Datuk Ding Kuong Hiing, and Sibu Rural District Council deputy chairman councillor Wong Ching Yong. — DayakDaily
