SIBU: The spirit of Ramadan was expressed in a warm and harmonious atmosphere when the Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government, Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee, went to the ground to distribute 500 packs of dates along with breaking-of-fast timetables to members of the Muslim community at Teku Market on Wednesday.

Datuk Michael Tiang, who is also the Pelawan Assemblyman, was accompanied by staff from the Pelawan Service Centre as they engaged with the local community, further enlivening the Ramadan spirit which arrives not long after the celebration of Chinese New Year.

According to him, the initiative reflects the spirit of togetherness and sharing that has long been practised by Sarawak’s multi-ethnic society.

“The harmony enjoyed in Sarawak did not come about by chance. It was built upon a strong foundation of unity laid by earlier generations since the establishment of Sarawak and the formation of Malaysia in 1963, and it continues to be preserved to this day.

“That is why, in Sarawak, we do not see differences in race or religion as dividing lines. Instead, we uphold our shared identity as children of Sarawak, which remains the state’s greatest strength,” he said when met by reporters.

Elaborating further, he explained that the distribution in Teku marked the first stop, with similar programmes to be carried out at other locations within the Pelawan constituency.

At the same time, he also informed that the annual Bubur Lambuk Programme will continue this year in collaboration with the Sarawak United National Youth Organisation (SABERKAS) and uniformed bodies.

“The distribution of contributions and Bubur Lambuk is not solely focused on Muslims, but also involves all segments of society as a symbol of unity and shared joy throughout the fasting month,” he added. -UKASnews

Translator: Uilson Ng