By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING: Sarawak Governor Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar has called on Sarawakians to preserve unity with full responsibility and not allow external elements or minor differences of opinion to destroy the bonds of brotherhood built by their ancestors.
In his Hari Raya Aidilfitri 2026 message, he emphasised that unity among Muslims and other communities contributes to political stability and social harmony in Sarawak, serving as a shield against polarisation often seen outside the State.
Wan Junaidi highlighted Sarawak’s ethnic and religious diversity as a bridge rather than a gap, citing the principle of “Segulai Sejalai” (moving together in harmony) and the role of organisations like HIKMAH (Harakah Islamiah Islam Sarawak) in supporting multi-ethnic welfare and education.
He said that the contributions of all Sarawakians to development form a unique narrative, transcending politics or ethnicity, and focusing on sustaining culture and social stability in a state with broad diversity.
“This aligns with the State’s development vision, as Sarawak exemplifies a ‘Big Family’. During festive seasons, the joy of Eid is shared with friends of various ethnicities and beliefs.
“As the saying goes, ‘Unity is strength, division leads to weakness,’ where cooperation and mutual assistance strengthen communities and ensure resilience,” he said.
Wan Junaidi expressed gratitude to Allah for allowing Sarawakians to celebrate the festival once again in a harmonious atmosphere filled with goodwill and unity.
Reflecting on Ramadan, he described it as a period that teaches patience, empathy, and moral values, while Syawal represents triumph over desires and the strengthening of faith.
He encouraged Sarawakians to carry forward the values of honesty, trustworthiness, and responsibility nurtured during Ramadan into their daily lives, whether as leaders, public servants, private-sector employees, or community members.
The Governor praised the tradition of open houses during Hari Raya as a unique example of Sarawak’s multicultural unity, where people of different ethnicities and religions visit one another to strengthen bonds.
“This demonstrates that diversity of background, religion, and culture is not a dividing gap, but a bridge connecting hearts and communities. This is the model of Sarawakian harmony: mutual understanding, tolerance, and prioritising common interests for the stability and progress of the State,” he said.
Wan Junaidi also highlighted Sarawak’s ongoing achievements under the leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, including international collaborations with the World Bank to strengthen governance, fiscal planning, and management of State-Owned Enterprises.
He cited innovation initiatives such as the world’s first AI-powered power converter, KETEQ AI, and the launch of the state-owned airline AirBorneo as symbols of economic resurgence, regional connectivity, and empowerment of the people.
He urged Sarawakians to use the festive season to forgive, strengthen relationships, and contribute to the state’s vision of Sarawak Maju 2030, with focus on green economy, renewable energy, and digital transformation for future generations.
“The wealth of this State lies not only in its natural resources but also in the unity of its people. The uniqueness of Muslims in Sarawak lies in their ethnic diversity, comprising Malays, Kedayan, Melanau, Vaie, and converts from various backgrounds,” he said.
Finally, Wan Junaidi and his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi extended appreciation to security personnel, medical staff, and public servants serving during the festive season, particularly those in Sarawak’s interior.
He also reminded residents travelling home for Hari Raya to exercise caution and travel safely to celebrate joyful moments with their family. — DayakDaily
