By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Sept 6: Sarawak must firmly reject extremism and narrow politics, and instead continue to embrace moderation, inclusivity, and unity to move forward in development and harmony.
Speaking as guest-of-honour at the Hungry Ghost Festival organised by Kuching Gong De Temple Association on Friday night (Sept 5), Stakan assemblyman Datuk Hamzah Brahim stressed that the Sarawak’s strength lies in its diversity and the spirit of mutual respect across communities.
“What makes Sarawak truly special is that we live these values every day. Under the strong leadership of our Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government has always placed moderation and inclusiveness at the heart of its policies,” he said in his speech read out by Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) Stakan Branch chairman Dato Sim Kiang Chiok.
Hamzah pointed out that Sarawak remains the only state in Malaysia with a dedicated Unit for Other Religions (Unifor) under the State government, which provides recognition and direct support to Christian, Buddhist, Taoist, Hindu, Sikh and other places of worship.
“This is a proud Sarawak initiative, born out of our Premier’s vision for a truly harmonious society. While politics across the South China Sea often seems divisive, here in Sarawak we chart our own course. GPS rejects extremism and narrow politics. We believe in development with harmony, because without peace and mutual respect, there can be no lasting progress,” he added. — DayakDaily
The Stakan assemblyman also praised the festival as a living example of Sarawak’s inclusive spirit, noting that although he does not take part in the rituals as a Muslim, he respects the deeper values the celebration represents.
“These are values that cut across all faiths; honouring parents and elders, remembering those who came before us, and strengthening the bonds of community,” he said, urging the younger generation to carry forward this spirit of unity.
Hamzah announced a contribution of RM5,000 to support the festival’s organising committee.
The event, attended by an estimated 1,000 people, also witnessed the distribution of rice, cooking oil, and other essentials to less fortunate families through donations from generous contributors.
