BELAGA: The spirit of unity and harmonious living among Belaga’s diverse communities continues to be the district’s biggest strength, driving both its social cohesion and development progress, said Deputy Minister for Utility and Telecommunication (Telecommunication), Datuk Liwan Lagang.

Datuk Liwan, who is also the Belaga Assemblyman, said the people of Belaga have long embraced a familial approach to community life, celebrating differences as shared strengths rather than divisions.

“In Belaga, we do not look at one another based on background. Whatever we do, we do it as one family. We celebrate Chinese New Year, Gawai, Christmas, altogether,” he said.

He emphasised that Belaga’s development achievements are the result of close cooperation between community leaders, civil servants and local residents, acknowledging their tireless contributions in driving improvements on the ground.

“I am very grateful. Much of the work has been done by government officers and community leaders, yet the recognition often comes to me. These people are truly good, and I am blessed to serve here,” he added during the Majlis Santai Bersama Setiausaha Kerajaan Sarawak on Friday.

Datuk Liwan noted that his invitation for the State leadership to visit Belaga was not to showcase accomplishments, but to allow them to see firsthand the district’s strengths and developmental challenges.

“I invited them not because I wanted to show something, but because I want them to see for themselves what we have, including our advantages and our shortcomings,” he said.

He also reaffirmed Belaga’s strong culture of religious respect, highlighting ongoing efforts to enhance facilities for all faiths, including the construction of a new mosque and the established churches in Sungai Asap.

“In places like Long Busang, the Premier allocated funds for both a mosque and a church. During Hari Raya, Christian neighbours help out, during Christmas, Muslim neighbours help. This is our harmony,” he said.

Datuk Liwan expressed his appreciation to the Sarawak Government and state leadership for their continuous support towards the development of rural and interior areas, including Belaga. -UKASnews