KUCHING: Ramadan can strengthen unity as Muslims and multi-racial and multi-religious groups get together to celebrate and observe the holy month.
Deputy Premier Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian said during Ramadan, he had observed that not only did the people break fast together, but individuals and groups also gathered and demonstrated mutual respect towards one another.
“During Ramadan, it is not the amount of food (we have) but most importantly everyone coming together to share the blessings, this is truly the meaning of Ramadan,” he said.
Dr Sim said this after officiating at the lighting up ceremony of Jalan Padungan’s famous white cat statue here in conjunction with the Hari Raya celebration last night.
He said in Sarawak, everyone irrespective of racial and religious background, understands each other’s festive occasion.
“In Sarawak, we find every occasion to celebrate together, be it Hari Raya, Gawai, Chinese New Year, or Christmas.
“Plus, during the (coming) Hari Raya, there will be fireworks. Then next month, during Gawai, there will also be fireworks. So, this symbolises what Sarawak is all about – unity,” he said.
On the cat statue, Dr Sim said Kuching South City Council (MBKS) has a tradition of adorning the cat statue with festive attire and embellishing the surrounding area with lighting and decorations.
“This is an effort to symbolise Kuching as a city of unity by coming together as one to celebrate Hari Raya.
“This is consistent with the people of Sarawak in which we always come together to celebrate whatever occasion,” he added.
This year, the iconic white cat statue is adorned with a beautiful Malay shawl.
MBKS mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng and deputy mayor Hilmy Othman were also present.
