Racial, religious tolerance in Sarawak envy of outsiders – Sarikei Resident
SARIKEI: The level of racial and religious tolerance in Sarawak is excellent, to the extent that is has become the envy of outsiders.
Sarikei Resident Mohd Junaidi Mohidin describes such tolerance as the unifying force that enables Sarawakians, regardless of their ethnicity and faith, to live in peace and harmony.
He said this when representing Repok assemblyman Dato Sri Huang Tiong Sii at the official opening of the ‘Unity Bazaar’ here on Saturday night.
The event was conducted in collaboration with Sarikei District Council, Sarikei Innovation Centre ( SIC) and Women’s Section of Chamber of Sarawak Bumiputera Entrepreneurs ( Dewanita).
Adding on, Mohd Junaidi said the unity among the people would create a peaceful and harmonious atmosphere, conducive to the implementation of economic activities set to prosper the community and also the state.
“Unity in diversity can make a big difference; hence it is our responsibility to ensure that the spirit of togetherness would flourish within our plural society,” he stressed.
In that respect, Mohd Junaidi felt it was appropriate for all segments of the community to always look forward to sharing and participating in each other’s festivals.
“Be it Chinese New Year, Gawai Dayak, Hari Raya Aidilfitri or Christmas, let us all regardless of race or religion, share the joys of these festivals together.”
On the two- day Unity Bazaar being held at the SIC compound, which ended yesterday, Mohd Junaidi said it was meant as a platform for the local community to share the joy of Christmas.
Similar activities would be run in conjunction with other festivals in time to come, he added.
He also hoped that the harmonious and peaceful atmosphere would contribute to a smooth and successful implementation of economic projects being planned for Sarikei, including the state’s first Agro Park.