Chinese federation aims for own building, calls for unity in 2026

KAPIT (Dec 24): Federation of Chinese Associations Sarawak (FCAS) president Dato Sri Richard Wee Liang Chiat has announced the goal of establishing the federation’s own building in Kuching in 2026 and called for greater unity within the Chinese community.

“In the coming year 2026, we hope to establish our Federation building and office in a prime location in Kuching.

“I call upon leaders from all affiliated associations throughout the state to work together to unite the Chinese community to act as a bridge between the people and the government and to strengthen understanding, friendship and co-operation among all ethnic groups in Sarawak to preserve the prevailing harmony and unity,” said Wee.

He spoke on Tuesday evening at the United Chinese Associations Kapit (UCA) office-bearers’ installation and members’ banquet at the Kapit Civic Centre.

He thanked members for their trust in re-electing him to serve a third term as FCAS president for 2026-2027, acknowledging the great responsibility of the role and pledging to do his best to build a stronger federation.

Wee also expressed gratitude to the state government for its continuous support, including providing land for the federation’s building and backing Chinese schools, associations, temples, churches, and other community organisations.

Addressing the issue of the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC), he said recent debates highlighted the Sarawak government’s inclusive approach.

“UEC, its non-recognition is not an academic issue but a political one. In Sarawak, the UEC is accepted and supported by all ethnic groups because of long-standing mutual understanding and trust. I believe Peninsula Malaysia can learn from Sarawak’s experience by encouraging more dialogue between communities to reduce misunderstanding and division,” he said.

He also encouraged UEC graduates to apply for civil service roles to contribute positively to society. To date, Sarawak, Sabah, Penang, and Selangor have recognised the UEC.

Commenting on the UCA Kapit installation, Wee congratulated Kapitan Yiap Yii Hoo on his re-election as chairman and urged the new committee to work hard to unite the community and act as a bridge with the government.

The event was officiated by James Sandak, officer-in-charge of the N63 Bukit Goram Community Services Centre, who represented Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Native Laws and Customs) Datuk Jefferson Jamit.

On Jamit’s behalf, Sandak announced a government grant of RM5,000 for UCA Kapit.

Among those present were Temenggong Toh Tze Hua, Pemanca Lim Eng Hock, Pemanca Pasang Tubak, Penghulu Jenny Yu Si Geok, Penghulu Sia Shui Poh.