KUCHING, Dec 24: The establishment of the Unit for Other Religions (Unifor) showcases the Sarawak government’s commitment to meeting the needs of non-Muslims.
In his 2023 Christmas message, Sarawak Head of State (TYT) Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud Sarawak emphasised that Unifor provides financial assistance for the construction of churches and places of worship for various religions.
Taib further stated that financial assistance is also provided to other religions, including Buddhists, Hindus, and Bahais.
“For this great initiative, I would like to personally commend the leadership of Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg for continuously allocating millions of ringgit for this noble cause annually,” he said in his message released today.
Furthermore, the Head of State highlighted that Sarawak’s uniqueness lies in celebrating festivals against a backdrop of genuine understanding and respect for one another, reflecting the true essence of peace and harmony in the region.
“What makes Sarawak so unique and special is that we have been able to celebrate all the major festivals and celebrations such as Christmas, Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Wesak Day, and Gawai Dayak with great joy and merriment, knowing that we are celebrating these festivals and celebrations against a backdrop of genuine understanding and respect for one another.
“This is indeed our true Sarawak essence of peace and harmony that we must uphold.”
Taib continued: “I am very glad to say that in Sarawak, Christians have been able to celebrate Christmas with their non-Christian friends, relatives, and family members of different religions. This tradition of visiting one another is unique in Sarawak, for which we have become a role model for the whole country.”
He went on to say that peace and harmony in Sarawak are invaluable treasures that must be upheld.
“Money and wealth could be easily acquired but not peace and harmony because both peace and harmony cannot be acquired or bought except through acceptance and respect for one another. And this is one of our greatest assets we must treasure, maintain, and uphold at all times,” he added.
Taib also noted that the current state of peace and harmony results from forefathers’ sacrifices.
“Once again, my family and I would like to wish all Christians a joyous and merry Christmas,” he remarked. — DayakDaily
