Embrace your rich heritage, young Chinese told
MARUDI: Today’s young generation of Chinese must take the initiative to learn and embrace their rich heritage that dates back thousands of years.
In this respect, Mulu assemblyman Datuk Gerawat Gala says it is the responsibility of parents to instil in their children the love for their culture and tradition.
“Nowadays, not many Chinese youngsters know about their culture, especially the Chinese traditional performing arts. They must be taught about their heritage; otherwise it ( heritage) would die out eventually because there’s nobody to carry it on.
“Tonight, we see some Chinese traditional performances by the elderly folk who still hold on strongly to their culture. We support such effort 100 per cent, but it would be better if there were more youths supporting it as well,” he said in his opening remarks at the district- level ‘ Sarawak Celebrates Chinese New Year 2017’ celebration in Baram Civic Centre near here Sunday night.
On a separate subject, Gerawat reminded two newly- appointed local Chinese community leaders – Penghulu Lau Kah Lieng and Kapitan Tie Seong Tek – to uphold the very characteristics that earned them their appointments.
“Both of you have exhibited strong leadership qualities. Use them to lead your charges, and also be the bridge that links the people with government.
“Listen to your people; highlight their issues and problems to the government through us, your ‘ wakil rakyat’ ( elected representatives); present your reports to the government,” he said.
Meanwhile, Marudi District Officer Mackos Sibong viewed the Sunday night celebration as one that highlighted the ‘ Kongsi Raya’ ( sharing of celebrations) concept aimed at uniting people of diverse backgrounds.
“The communities in Sarawak live in harmony and have great respect to each other’s beliefs and cultures. The shared celebrations of occasions like Chinese New Year, Hari Raya and Gawai Dayak serve as the platform of unity and solidarity for Sarawakians,” he said.
Assistant Minister for Local Government Datu Dr Penguang Manggi officiated at the opening of the district- level ‘ Sarawak Celebrates Chinese New Year 2017’, was attended by over 360 guests.