By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Feb 2: For the first time, the Sarawak government is organising a State-level Chinese New Year (CNY) open house this year, scheduled for Feb 10 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) from 9am to 3pm with 5,000 attendees expected to join the festivities.
Traditionally, the annual CNY State-level celebration is hosted by the Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP).
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian emphasised the significant move reflects Sarawak’s diversity and enhances the inclusive policy of the Sarawak government.
“Our Premier (Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg) has always been fair. At the same time, the open house also enhances the spirit of togetherness through people visiting one another during festivities and ethnic celebrations.
“This year, we will usher in the Year of the Dragon, which symbolises strength, power, wisdom, good fortune, and success,” he told a press conference at Wisma Bapa Malaysia today.
The CNY 2024 open house will be graced by Sarawak Governor Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and wife Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, along with Sarawak Premier and wife Puan Sri Datuk Amar Juma’ani Tuanku Bujang.
Dr Sim mentioned that invitations have been extended to Federal and Sarawak Cabinet ministers, heads of departments, religious leaders, community leaders, and various associations and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
During the celebrations, various programmes have been planned, including the Yee Sang tossing ceremony as well as cultural and traditional stage performances.
“It must be emphasised that this is an open house, and an invitation is not needed. So, we welcome all sectors of the society to join us in this celebration.
“As we usher in the Year of the Dragon, may Sarawak continue to progress and prosper in peace and harmony with our people remaining united regardless of cultural and racial backgrounds,” he added.
Dr Sim also informed that the SUPP CNY open house will be hosted in Sibu this year on Feb 17, with Datuk Michael Tiang in charge as the organising committee chairman.
Deputy State Secretary Datu Hii Chang Kee, Batu Kitang assemblyman Dato Lo Khere Chiang, Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap, Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) chairman Tan Kai, and permanent secretary to Ministry of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Elizabeth Loh were among those present. — DayakDaily
