BY GABRIEL LIHAN & JAMES WONG
Sarawak has a long-lasting history of wonderful culture, beautiful traditions, and amazing foods that have been etched in the lives of so many proud Sarawakians.
To commemorate 60 years of independence, New Sarawak Tribune delved into the hearts of Sarawakians from all walks of life to understand their profound pride, and their voices resound with a shared sense of our remarkable cultural diversity, harmonious coexistence, and breathtaking natural beauty.
From embracing inclusive traditions and savouring unique local cuisines to earning global recognition for our exports, Sarawakians hold deep reverence for our rich heritage.
On this momentous occasion, New Sarawak Tribune took the opportunity to explore the essence of what it means to be a proud Sarawakian.
Desmond Tie Huo Yih, 34
Civil Engineer
I am proud to be a Sarawakian because I hold a deep sense of pride in the remarkable cultural diversity and harmony found within our state. I appreciate the breath-taking natural beauty of diverse flora and fauna; our distinctive traditions, cuisines, and festivals also hold profound meaning and are joyously embraced amongst the community. Moreover, the welcoming and inclusive nature of Sarawak’s community is a source of immense pride for me as a Sarawakian.
Dayang Athirah Hanim Abang Khyrul Azwandy, 22
Student
I am proud to be a Sarawakian because of the tolerance and acceptance found amongst our people, despite having diverse cultures. Sarawak’s inclusive traditions and acts of kindness create a unique peace. Sarawak cuisine also reflects the richness of its ethnic groups, with flavours that cannot be replicated elsewhere. The warmth, kindness, and hospitality of Sarawakians make it a place where strangers are embraced as friends. Sarawak holds a special place in my heart for its captivating culture, delicious food, and the genuine spirit of its people.
Aaron Won Thian Lroon, 38
Close Protection Operative
I am proud to be a Sarawakian because of the global recognition our state has earned for its remarkable people, diverse cultures, and exceptional hospitality. Our state is known for its renowned pepper production, alongside our exports such as coal, electricity, pigs, oil, and timber, which further establish Sarawak’s international significance. Sarawak, as a founding member of the federation, has proven itself worthy in the eyes of the world. Therefore, as a Sarawakian, I am proud to inherit such a profound legacy.
Pheodora Pamela Natashya, 24
Postgraduate Student
I am proud to be a Sarawakian, as Sarawak truly is a model of peace and harmony. Here in Sarawak, everyone enjoys a celebration without thinking twice. Sarawak revels in peace, diversity, and progress. Hence, I am a proud Sarawakian first and a Malaysian second.
Felicia John, 32
Nurse
I am proud to be a Sarawakian because of the beautiful people that exist here. When I travel around the world, you cannot find anywhere like Sarawak. It is such a wonderful place that everyone speaks two to three languages and still identifies themselves as Sarawakians. Our features are also very unique, and our skin colours and appearance are very special too.
Debra Marie, 26
Civil Servant
I am proud to be a Sarawakian because it is clean, the environment is friendly, and the community is very united. I love the food as well, because there’s no other place where you can find authentic Dayak food. Being a Sarawakian, we look great to people from other countries.
Frederick Hii, 26
Junior Architect
I am proud to be a Sarawakian because of the wonderful food. I am from Sibu, and the food there is amazing. Sibu’s food is also the reason why I love Sarawak so much. I am glad and happy to be a Sarawakian.
Angie Liew, 29
Management Consultant
I am proud because this is a multiracial state; we get to live peacefully together despite race, religion, or ethnicity. I like that we are very rich in our natural resources. I like that we are very protected as Sarawakians, and a lot of opportunities are saved just for Sarawakians. I also like the fact that the state is thinking of its own people. It’s very peaceful living here, and I also love our rainforest.
