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By Ashley Sim and Karen Bong
KUCHING, June 8: Prime Minister Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim implores Malaysians, especially those in Peninsular Malaysia who engage in divisive rhetoric and actions, sow discord, create inter-racial misunderstandings, and fuel extreme religious sentiments, to learn from Sarawak’s harmonious existence and strength in unity.
Anwar echoed the significance of upholding and strengthening the spirit of unity as expressed by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong in his recent royal address to steer the country towards a better future.
“Tonight we are celebrating an important aspect of our culture and we cannot over-stress the blessings arising from embracing this diversity.
“Diversity can be broken down but diversity can also build. Not only GPS (Gabungan Parti Sarawak) government but the unity government choose to prioritise diversity to build and strengthen (the country),” he said when speaking at the Gawai Dayak 2023 celebration dinner hosted by the Sarawak government at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) last night (June 7).
The celebration was honoured with the presence of Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud and his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Raghad Kurdi Taib, as well as Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas who was also the event organising chairman.
Anwar reminded Malaysians that unity in Malaysia was not achieved easily and attributed it to the efforts of past independence leaders who brought Sarawak and Sabah together with other States in Peninsular Malaysia to form Malaysia.
“Do not exploit any issue to divide or promote hatred. In a society of multi religions—including Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism—religion and culture should promote messages of peace, compassion and humanity,” he said.
Acknowledging the existence of divisive elements, he commended Sarawak for its control over the situation, where the situation is more harmonious, and praised the Premier and Sarawak leadership for their efforts in fostering unity.
Calling for introspection, Anwar reiterated that it is now upon every Malaysian to uphold the dignity of the country as a sovereign, independent and successful nation. He also urged the people to utilise this success to benefit the people as done by Sarawak.
Deputy Prime Minister Dato Sri Fadillah Yusof, Sarawak Legislative Assembly Speaker Datuk Amar Mohd Asfia Awang Nasar as well as Sarawak and federal dignitaries were among those present. — DayakDaily
