Looking out for all members of society
In CNY message, TYT hails Sarawakians for looking out for each other, fostering peace and harmony
As we enter into the Year of the Wooden Dragon, let us unite in the celebration of tradition, family togetherness, and the promising prospects of a be er future that lie ahead.
Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar
Sarawakians have become one big family who take care of the interests, welfare and needs of others, underscoring the sense of communal responsibility that permeates at every level of society in Sarawak, said Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar.
In his Chinese New Year address, the governor said with the unwavering support of all strata of people in the state, he truly envisions a stable and harmonious future, fairness, and justice for all which align with the overall progress of the country.
“Together, let us strive to play a collective role in promoting peace and harmony among all races in Sarawak,” he said.
Wan Junaidi also emphasised the importance of family gatherings, open house and its festive meals, and the exchange of ‘angpow’ that bring joy to the occasion.
In this regard, he called upon Sarawakians to preserve their inclusive culture that transcends differences in ways of life, traditions and beliefs, as a means to foster deeper appreciation, care and unity among the diverse communities.
“As Chinese New Year approaches with eager anticipation, families are preparing to engage in the cherished tradition of coming together for Chu Xi, commonly referred to as the reunion dinner, on the eve of the New Year.
“This time-honoured practice carries immense significance, not only strengthening familial ties, but also serving as a venerable expression of gratitude for the achievements of the past year, accompanied by optimistic aspirations for a more promising year ahead,” he said.
He added that the highly auspicious Year of the Wooden Dragon is symbolic of productivity, authority, prosperity and good fortune.
Embodying the characteristics of the dragon, this year emphasises the importance of diligence and hard work in the pursuit of prosperity for both individual families and the broader community, he noted.
“As we enter into the Year of the Wooden Dragon, let us unite in the celebration of tradition, family togetherness, and the promising prospects of a be er future that lie ahead.
“May the spirit of the Wooden Dragon inspire all of us to work diligently towards fostering prosperity, not only within our families, but also in our communities, and whole beloved Sarawak at large,” Wan Junaidi said.
Abang Johari said last year had been a good year as it was when Sarawak had achieved its plans.
He cited the setting up of Sarawak Sovereign and Future Wealth Fund (SSWF) with an initial seed capital of RM8 billion and progressive yearly appropriation of RM400 million to RM600 million until 2034 from the state government as proof that the state has a sound financial policy.
“We are able to set up the SSWF because Sarawak has quite a strong economy and our revenue continues to rise to record figures. Last year, Sarawak’s revenue stood at RM13.3 billion and I believe it will continue to rise next year, and in the years ahead, as our economy continues to strengthen,” he added.
With the current transformation, Abang Johari foresees that the Chinese business community in the state has a big role to play.
He acknowledged that the Chinese community has always been an important part of the state’s political and economic life.
He thus hoped that the Chinese business community would continue to support the government’s effort to strengthen the state’s economic position with their resources, domestic and international influence and networking.
“I was told that people born in the Year of the Dragon usually possess natural courage, tenacity and intelligence, often displaying enthusiasm and confidence.
“I sincerely hope that all our Chinese friends are high in spirit as they enter the Year of the Dragon that certainly holds a lot of promises and hopes for all Sarawakians, as we journey together to transform our beloved Land of the Hornbills into a developed statetowards 2030,” he said.
He also assured that the state will continue to provide a conducive business environment and policies for all business communities.
“As premier, what I want to tell our Chinese friends and fellow Sarawakians is that the environment now is conducive for business to flourish and our beloved Sarawak is quite on its way to achieve a developed state status by 2030.
“With our political stability and social cohesiveness, I am confident we can achieve that,
Insyallah. Let us not dwell on trivialities but always look at the bigger picture to enable Sarawak to stand tall as a strong economic force in Malaysia and in the region.
“Finally, let me once again wish all our Chinese friends Gong Xi Fa Cai. May the Year of the Dragon be another successful year for Sarawak and for all of us,” he concluded.