S’wak model state of unity, religious harmony – Uggah

MIRI: Sarawak is a model state where unity and religious harmony prevail, binding Sarawakians together, says Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.

It is thus the duty of every Sarawakian to ensure that no outside forces can break them up and act as a wall against their influences so their state can continue to be prosperous, he reminded.

“The close working relationship the state government has with its people is the key to build a better future for Sarawak, bringing prosperity where everybody is free to choose their religion, enabling us to mingle together in setting the steps towards continuous development.

“I, therefore, want the people in Sarawak to maintain this close relationship,” he said when officiating at the elevation and proclamation of Holy Trinity Church in Lambir to a parish and 2nd anniversary dinner of the parish at Mega Hotel here on Sunday.

Uggah, who is also Minister of Modernisation of Agriculture, Native Land and Regional Development and minister in charge of Unit for Other Religions (Unifor), congratulated the organising committee for organising the event as well as its success in raising funds to elevate the church to a parish.

“I know the route to reach this elevation and proclamation has not been easy, as I was also involved in raising funds for the church. It is not easy to raise RM2 million but you have achieved it, congratulations!” he said.

He commended the church members for their cooperation and collaboration with the committee and state government leaders in their hope to see the church grow and elevated to a parish.

Uggah emphasised that the state government has always been very supportive in the development of churches in the state as the church has a very important role in the development of society, especially in forging unity among the people.

In particular, he informed that Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg, the leader of the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government, is always willing and prepared to listen.

“That is why he (Abang Johari) has always been supportive of Unifor not only in words but also in giving funds.