By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, May 23: Sarawak practises unity in diversity through its celebration of festivals which are not just for one race, but for all.
Kuching South City Council (MBKS) mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng told reporters this when met today after officiating at the light-switching ceremony in conjunction with the coming Gawai celebrations held at the Padungan White Cat, Jalan Padungan here on behalf of Deputy Premier of Sarawak Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian.
“The light-switching ceremony for each festival is our practice for all the festive seasons, so each festival is treated fairly.
“This time, the ceremony is arranged differently, as we have women dressed in traditional Sarawak attire present with us,” Wee said.
He went on to say that by celebrating festivals together in Sarawak, multiracial ties will be strengthened.
“And by celebrating festivals together, we can better understand one another and keep Sarawak in a very harmonious state.
“For us Sarawakians, during Gawai, the Chinese and Malay will visit their Dayak friends.
“The Dayak will also visit their Chinese and Malay friends during Chinese New Year and Hari Raya Aidilfitri, respectively,” he noted.
The MBKS mayor also emphasised that Sarawak has maintained the best of everything, particularly in terms of race harmony and unity.
Additionally, Wee urged all members of the public to maintain physical distancing and wear masks when in crowded areas due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.
“Also, those going back to their longhouses should drive carefully and remember that when you drink, don’t drive, and when you drive, don’t drink,” he added.
Among others present was MBKS deputy mayor Hilmy Othman. — DayakDaily
