by DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, April 24: Sarawak stands proudly as a living model of unity in diversity of the Asean region, exemplified through the philosophy of “Segulai Sejalai” as a way of life here, Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing says.
“Just as Asean gathers over 680 million people of various backgrounds under one shared vision, Sarawak stands proudly as a living model of that same spirit. ‘Segulai Sejalai’ — together in unity — is not just a saying, but a way of our life here,” Tiong said in a Facebook post after the welcoming dinner for the 33rd Asean Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Council Meeting.
“In Sarawak, this spirit is not just a slogan, but it lives in our community, be it Chinese New Year, Hari Raya, Gawai, Deepavali or Christmas, in our multi-religious celebrations that see communities come together as one, no matter their background,” he said in his speech, as reported by Bernama.
Kuching’s recognition as Malaysia’s first UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy is a global acknowledgment of the State’s rich culinary heritage which is deeply rooted in its multicultural society, Tiong pointed out.
He further highlighted that Sarawak is known for its diverse cultures and 34 ethnic groups, making it a unique and rich destination for visitors.
“From the traditional tattoo art of the Iban warriors to the intricate beadwork of the Orang Ulu, each culture tells stories without words, every ethnic group contributes to a cultural ecosystem that is vibrant, sacred, and alive.
“We have the Ibans, Bidayuh, Malays, Chinese, Melanau, Kayan, Lun Bawang, Penan, each with rituals, music, crafts, and oral histories that are part of our living heritage,” he said.
The ASCC Council Meeting, held twice yearly at the Ministerial level, addresses key socio-cultural issues across the Asean region. Supported by Senior Officials Committee for the ASCC (SOCA) meetings, it advances Asean’s socio-cultural agenda through regional projects, cultural exchange, and partnerships with international organisations.
The current ASCC Council Meeting is taking place from April 22 to 26 in Kuching. – DayakDaily
