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By Karen Bong
KUCHING, July 21: A multifaith thanksgiving prayer ceremony, which unites people from diverse religions, cultures and backgrounds in anticipation of Sarawak’s 60 Years of Independence celebration, stands as a resounding testament to the magnificent harmony and unity in Sarawak – a reality that goes beyond mere empty talk.
Organised by Unit for Other Religions (Unifor), the event saw participation of around 700 people from various houses of worships including Christian, Buddhist, Hindu, Bahai, Sikh and Tao.
Addressing the congregation, Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg emphasised that Sarawak’s unity and harmonious coexistence were not accidental but the result of efforts laid down by past leaders.
“This meaningful legacy should not be taken for granted, especially by the younger generation. As such, many efforts and initiatives are implemented to strengthen our unity in diversity, including through the establishment of Unifor,” he said in his text-of-speech was read by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas at a hotel here today.
Abang Johari reaffirmed the commitment of the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government to guide Sarawak towards greater heights while upholding and reinforcing unity and harmony for the future.
Over the last 60 years, he said Sarawak has witnessed rapid development, leading to its recognition as a high-income status by the World Bank today.
“The road to attain these was filled with ups and downs and many challenges. But here we are today to receive the prayers and blessings from all religious groups, showcasing that Sarawak is a prosperous, progressive and united State.
“Your presence here today is clear reflection that the uniqueness in unity in diversity in Sarawak is ‘bukan omong kosong’ (mere empty talk),” he added.
Moving forward, Abang Johari said the Cabinet will continue to bolster Sarawak’s economy by moving away from conventional methods and explore more avenues to generate increased income for the region.
“The higher income we have, the more we will give back to help the people in the form of development.
“Whatever development and socio-economic programmes and plans we have, we will ensure they will benefit everyone everywhere in Sarawak,” he added.
The ceremony embodied the true essence of Sarawak’s inclusive spirit, where people of all beliefs joined hands in prayer for peace, harmony, unity, prosperity, and the well-being of Sarawak’s leaders and future.
The event commenced with an opening prayer by Catholic Archbishop Simoh Poh, and the diverse array of religious leaders took turns leading the congregation, promoting values of love, compassion, and mutual respect shared across all religions for the betterment of Sarawak.
Deputy Premier Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian, Minister of Transport Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, Deputy Minister of Telecommunication Datuk Liwan Lagang, Deputy Minister of Public Health and Housing Datu Penguang Manggil, Federal Minister of Works Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi, Federal National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang and Unifor director Datu Jack Aman Luat were present. — DayakDaily
