KUCHING: The festivities that are celebrated regardless of one’s ethnic and religious background is the key to unity among the diverse communities in the state, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
He said the people of Sarawak should feel proud to be able to celebrate various festivities in a peaceful manner, which helps in building understanding and mutual respect among the people here.
“The people of Sarawak must continue to uphold the peaceful and harmonious environment to become a developed and high income state by 2030.
“We are lucky because we have a visionary leader like Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, who is a leader of all races.
“His policies are inclusive which can be reflected in the Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 and through the Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR), reflecting the inclusivity by the state government.
“Therefore, the people need to use every opportunity available to strengthen the spirit of unity through various activities involving all races,” he said during a Vaisakhi dinner held at a hotel here yesterday (May 14).
Also present were UNIFOR director Datuk Jack Aman Luat, Sarawak Temple Association president Dr Kalwinder Singh Khaira, Kuching North City Hall (DBKU) Mayor Datuk Junaidi Reduan and other distinguished guests.
Uggah, who is also minister in charge of UNIFOR said he hoped that the Vaisakhi celebration will bring joy to everyone and strengthen family ties.
The Vaisakhi celebration, which is celebrated by the Sikh community throughout the country, marks the beginning of a new year for the community.
‘Vaisakhi’ signifies the start of the harvest season according to the Sikh calendar.
