KUCHING: Sarawakians are blessed to have a fair and people-centric government which allows them to celebrate their festivals freely.
Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Datuk James Chan told reporters this during the MBKS Lunar New Year Open House with the Community at Dewan Masyarakat here yesterday
He said such unity in diversity could be seen during the Chinese New Year with people of all races joining in the celebration.
“Apart from the government’s effort in maintaining the state’s peace, the council, too, plays a role, and thus we organised this open house to bring people of all races, colour and creed together,” he said.
Chan added that the open house tradition also served as an important reminder for the people in Sarawak to continue making friends regardless of race and religion and to remain united.
“Therefore, we all must come as one and work together not only to beautify Kuching City but ensure that the peace and harmony is preserved,” he said.
Chan added although the celebration was just a short one, but it was a time of gathering for all races.
“That is why Sarawak people have a very unique character. And you hardly find them in any country in the world.”
Meanwhile, present to join in the celebration were the Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud, and his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Raghad Kurdi Taib, Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian and BatuKitang assemblyman Lo Khere Chiang.
Nearly 8,000 people were present at the open house including staff and their families.
There were also a lion dance and Chinese orchestra performance to entertain the crowd.
Earlier, Chan also presented a donation from the council to Trienekens’ late staff Hamka Su’ud who got knocked down while loading a bin behind a garbage compactor truck on Friday.
Trienekens Sarawak Sdn Bhd Division manager (Logistics and Services) Lee Ghee Seng received the donation on behalf of the late Hamka’s family.
