By Emily Ruran
MIRI, July 5: The Taste of Borneo Carnival (TOBC) 4.0 has earned a Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) recognition under the Most Ethnic Associations in a Parade category, recognising its celebration of Borneo’s diverse cultures.
The recognition was announced during the event’s opening ceremony, officiated by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg here on Saturday (July 4), which was streamed live via the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas)
The ceremony also witnessed the exchange of memoranda of understanding (MoUs) among ethnic associations, as well as the signing of a friendship city agreement between Miri City Council and the People’s Government of Lijiang, China, to strengthen cooperation in culture, tourism and bilateral relations.
Welcoming the delegation from Yunnan, China, Abang Johari said Sarawak’s ties with China dated back centuries through the voyages of Chinese explorer Zheng He.
He said Zheng He, whom he described as a Muslim explorer from Yunnan, had travelled to Melaka before stopping in Borneo, marking the beginning of trade and relations between China and this region, including Brunei.
“It is fitting that tonight we revive that relationship between the Chinese and the people in this part of the world.
“What is important for us is that we want a peaceful region. A peaceful Sarawak. A peaceful Borneo. If there are issues, we can discuss them.
“What matters is our mutual respect and our willingness to exchange new ideas as we navigate the economic transition brought about by climate change,” he said.
The event also featured cultural performances by participants from Sabah, Brunei, Indonesia, and Yunnan, China, showcasing Borneo’s cultural diversity while fostering regional friendship and cooperation.
Also present were Minister of Works Malaysia, Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi; Minister of Transport Sarawak, Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin; Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Malaysia, Dato Lukanisman Awang Sauni; Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Regional Development Agencies Coordination, DBKU, and Islamic Affairs), Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi; Deputy Minister for Women, Children, and Community Wellbeing Development Sarawak (Women and Children Development), Datuk Rosey Yunus; Miri Mayor Adam Yii Siew Sang; Miri Resident Galong Luang; TOBC Chief Coordination Ambassador Dato Hii King Chiong; and TOBC Presiding Chairman Harry Lee. — DayakDaily
