Set politics aside to celebrate Gawai — Baru Bian
Sarawak approaches the Gawai season this year with a greater sense of thanksgiving as the last general election has brought about a change of government at the federal level, says PKR chairman Baru Bian.
He added that the country went through a very challenging and bitter election process, battling many obstacles the Barisan Nasional ( BN) government had put in the way of a free and fair election.
“In the end, the people’s power won the day. It was the aspiration of the people to elect a new government, and by sheer grit and determination, they have given their mandate to a new government. Truly, we reap what we sow,” he said in his Gawai Dayak message.
The Selangau MP said amidst the political changes at the same time, the people must also take the time to celebrate the culture and adat of the natives of Sarawak.
“The Gawai celebration is apolitical, and serves as an enriching time for us all here in Sarawak, as a multicultural and multiracial society. Gawai unites all of us as one people of Sarawak.
“Setting aside politics and the elections, we look forward to going home to our roots in the simple environment where we can rejoice in thanksgiving for our blessings,” he said.
Baru, who is also Ba Kelalan assemblyman, said Sarawak is indeed blessed as besides being rich in diversity and culture, the state is also rich in natural resources.
“We must never forget that the preservation and management of our wealth is paramount, and that it must be utilised prudently for the benefit of all Sarawakians, not just the elite few. In the aftermath of what has happened in Malaysia, let the people realise that the real power lies with them, if they are united.”
He expressed his hope that the new government will be responsible in carrying out its obligation to the whole nation, and that the state government will be responsible in managing the state’s wealth for all Sarawakians.
“If we are aware of our onerous duty and discharge our duties responsibly, our people will continue to enjoy many good harvests in the future, not only in Sarawak, but the whole of Malaysia.”
Baru wished all Dayak friends a safe and blessed Gawai.