BETONG: Sarawak will continue to uphold the values of tolerance, modesty and mutual respect that have long been the cornerstone of the state's strength as a national model of unity and harmony.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Abang Openg said the aspiration of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim to strengthen national unity resonates deeply with the people of Sarawak, who have long been known as a state that celebrates diversity and upholds the spirit of mutual respect among races and religions.

He said the people of Sarawak do not merely live in an atmosphere of tolerance, but truly live as one big family that practises the value of togetherness in their daily lives.

"Houses of worship are built side by side, festivities are celebrated together, and the spirit of mutual respect continues to be the foundation of our people's lives.

"This harmony did not come about by chance, but is the result of continuous efforts by all parties in preserving understanding and togetherness," he said.

He made these remarks through a speech text read by the Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department, Dato Sri John Sikie Tayai, at the Interfaith Thanksgiving Ceremony in conjunction with the 17th Official Birthday Celebration of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong at the State Level 2026, held at Dewan Panglima Rentap, Betong on Saturday.

Elaborating further, he said the gathering, which brought together people of various faiths and walks of life, was not merely an official event, but rather a reflection of Sarawak's true strength as an example of unity for the nation.

He said the people of the state continue to live in peace and unity despite coming from diverse cultural, religious and belief backgrounds, in line with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong's desire to see Malaysians live as one big family with mutual respect for one another.

At the same time, he stressed that sensitive issues relating to religion, race and the royal institution, or the 3Rs, must not be manipulated for narrow interests in ways that could undermine the nation's harmony and stability.

He noted that the selection of Betong as the host of this year's official celebration reflects the true face of Sarawak, a state that lives in harmony and full consensus.

"The presence of a mosque, a church and a temple standing in close proximity to one another in the area serves as a symbol of the spirit of mutual respect and support that has long been practised by the local community.

"The Sarawak Government will remain committed to preserving inter-racial and inter-religious harmony through various initiatives that benefit all people regardless of their background," he added.

Also present were Deputy Minister of International Trade, Industry and Investment Datuk Dr Malcolm Mussen Lamoh, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Snowdan Lawan, Deputy Sarawak Secretary (Operation) Datu Hii Chang Kee, Director of the Unit for Other Religions Affairs (UNIFOR) Dato Georgina Apphia Ngau, and other guests. -UKASnews

Prepared by : Gabriel Rommy
Photographer : Shahril Haqim
Translator : Uilson Ng