By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Sept 14: Sarawak’s contribution to Malaysia is not only through its natural resources and economic potential, but also through the values that they have cultivated for generations: moderation, mutual respect, harmony, and confidence in diversity, says Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
In his speech delivered by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas at the Interfaith Thanksgiving Ceremony in conjunction with the 2026 National-Level Malaysia Day Celebration here on Monday night (Sept 14), he said that Sarawak’s experience proves that people who are different can move forward with a common purpose.
“We do not need to eliminate differences to achieve unity. Instead, we must turn diversity into a strength,” he said.
The Premier said that Sarawakians have long lived in a society made up of different religions, races, languages, and cultures where they share schools, workplaces, food, celebrations, and community life.
“Unity does not require uniformity. We do not have to be the same in order to live together as one society.
“In an increasingly complex and uncertain world, peace and stability cannot be taken for granted. They are the result of the efforts and sacrifices of previous generations. It is our responsibility to safeguard them,” he said.
He went on to say that infrastructure such as roads, bridges, ports, energy, and digital connectivity are often talked about, but another form of infrastructure that is even more important is trust, as without it, development will not take the State far.
“It is the trust and good relationships among our people. Generation after generation has built a shared way of life based on moderation, tolerance and mutual respect.
“In a society of different religions and cultures, differences should not be a cause for division. Instead, they can be a source of strength. We choose dialogue over division, understanding over prejudice, and mutual respect over intolerance. That is the Sarawak way,” he said.
He added that one of the blessings enjoyed in Sarawak is the freedom for its people to practise their respective religions in an atmosphere of peace and harmony, which the Sarawak government will continue to respect and protect.
This was reflected in the establishment of the Unit for Other Religions (Unifor), which is not merely a channel for financial assistance, but mirrors the Sarawak government’s approach to ensuring that other religious communities are also respected, given space to grow and enabled to contribute to the development of the State.
“In conjunction with Malaysia Day, let us continue to safeguard what we have built together. Let us build a Malaysia that is peaceful and stable; respects diversity; provides opportunities for all; uses technology for the benefit of humanity; and ensures that well-being is truly enjoyed by everyone.”
Among those present were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian and Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Sarawak Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah. — DayakDaily
