KUCHING: During this Gawai Dayak, we should continue to follow the standard operating procedures (SOPs) to combat Covid-19 as this is the new normal that everyone must accept, said Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan.
Awang Tengah noted that it is our collective responsibility to follow all government regulations and SOPs in order to curb the spread of the Covid-19 virus.
“This year’s Gawai Dayak, just like Hari Raya Aidilfitri, is particularly unusual because we are currently combating the Covid-19 pandemic.
“I’d like to encourage anyone who has not already registered for the vaccination programme to do so right away.
“Registration can be done through the MySejahtera application or at the local district office. This step is critical in ensuring that we can put a stop to the pandemic and bring back some sense of normalcy to our lives,” he said.
He added that several measures and assistance have been made by both the federal and governments to help lessen the people’s strain.
“For example, the federal government has provided aid through many programmes such as the National Economic Recovery Plan (Penjana), and Strategic Programme to Empower the People and Economy (Pemerkasa).
“Meanwhile, the Sarawak government has implemented and continues to execute many programmes totalling RM3.2 billion through the Sarawakku Sayang Special Assistance (BKSS) 1.0 to BKSS 5.0.
“This proves that the assistance provides support to all Sarawakians, regardless of ethnicity or political affiliation,” he said.
On Gawai Dayak, he said despite the moderate celebration, it would help improve ties among Sarawakians who are of different races, religions, culture, and heritage.
“I wish everyone a Happy Gawai and hope that everyone stays safe. Please take care of yourself and your family and prioritise our health and safety throughout the Gawai celebration.”
