SPAOH: The practice of visiting during major festivals of various races is an annual tradition that is the foundation of the harmony of the Sarawakian community.

Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said that the celebration of festivals is not only celebrated by a particular race, but rather belongs to all Sarawakians and is an important platform to foster a sense of belonging.

“Whenever there is a celebration, whether it is Chinese New Year, Gawai Dayak or Hari Raya, we will visit each other as a way of strengthening cooperation, understanding and close ties.

“At the same time, we also get feedback on the situation and understand the needs of our respective areas,” he said when met by the media during a Chinese New Year visit to several homes of community leaders and Chinese communities around Spaoh on Wednesday.

He said the visit reflected the spirit of unity and harmony of the multi-racial community in Spaoh, in line with the state government’s aspirations to continue strengthening social stability and inclusive development in Sarawak.

He also delivered Gong Xi Fa Cai and Xin Nian Kuai Le speeches to the Chinese community celebrating Chinese New Year, with the hope that the new year will bring more progress, prosperity and happiness.

The visit organised by the Bukit Saban DUN Service Centre lasted from 11.30 am to 3.30 pm and involved visits to six homes, including the homes of Pemanca Goh Leng Thong, Councillor Lai Ngit Shin and Kapitan Jong Koi Chian.

Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah who is also Sarawak's Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development and Bukit Saban Assemblyman was present with his wife, Datin Amar Datuk Doreen Mayang.

Also present was Betong Member of Parliament, Datuk Dr Richard Rapu, as well as several local leaders and officials. - UKASnews

Translator: Ryan Lim