Taib: Close ties between Muslims, non-Muslims in S’wak a ‘way of life’
KUCHING: It has been a tradition and way of life for Muslims and non-Muslims in the state to work closely together in contributing to the success story of Sarawak.
Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud said with Sarawak being a multireligious society, the harmony and religious tolerance enjoyed by the people would contribute to the state’s development, with the people charting their own success based on their own religion.
“It is indeed fortunate for me to witness the close cooperation and relationship between Muslims and non-Muslims, as the Islam faith propagates the teachings of having harmonious relationship with all quarters of society,” he said when officiating the Malaysian Muslim Welfare Organisation (Perkim) Sarawak’s 30th anniversary dinner here on Saturday night.
Taib emphasised that the enemy of one’s religion is not other religions; rather it is the ‘materialistic’ views that cause one to place their interests and benefits above others.
He pointed out that Perkim Sarawak – established in 1989 with 19 branches state-wide – has been effective in spreading and educating the teachings of Islam among Muslims while also respecting other religions.
He added the organisation has been tasked with heavy responsibility of strengthening ties between Muslims and non-Muslim in the state.
Taib also expressed his gratitude to the people of state, regardless of faith, for responding well to the policies initiated by the Sarawak government.
“We are lucky that whatever good policies we have, that are of spiritually high value, has got good support from all communities whether Muslim or non-Muslim,” he said.
On another note, he shared that the administration of Islamic affairs in the state has been progressing well, especially with the strong cooperation among Muslim leaders.
He said the Sarawak Islamic Council is also seeking new ways to unite people of different races in the state and to continue to move forward with concerted efforts from Muslims.
Meanwhile, Perkim Sarawak chairperson Datuk Hanifah Taib Alsree said through contributions from the private sector and individuals, the organisation had carried out many welfare activities for the less fortunate in society.