CNY visit underscores Sarawak’s enduring multiracial harmony

SIBU (Feb 20): Amid the festive cheer of Chinese New Year, Sarawak political leaders set aside differences to highlight what they described as the state’s most enduring hallmark — racial harmony and unity.

Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Sri Tiong King Sing paid a Chinese New Year visit to the home of Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) senior vice-president Datuk Sri Wong Soon Koh today, where beyond the customary exchange of greetings, both leaders reflected on the importance of preserving Sarawak’s multiracial peace.

“Here in Sarawak, people of different backgrounds live together in harmony, and that is something we must treasure.

“Festive occasions like this remind us that our unity is our strength,” Tiong told reporters when met.

Wong echoed the sentiment, praising Sarawak’s long-standing tradition of togetherness.

He recalled the late former Chief Minister Tan Sri Adenan Satem, fondly known as Tok Nan, who captured the state’s social spirit with the saying: “makan bersama, main bersama, cari amoi pun bersama” (eat together, play together, and even court together) — a light-hearted reflection of how Sarawakians live, socialise and even court across ethnic lines.

In the festive context, Tiong also urged leaders and the public to prioritise community welfare and understanding, rather than allowing political differences to create division.

“During this season, let us celebrate not just the festival, but also the shared values that bind us together,” he said.

“Every party and every citizen has a role to play in maintaining peace and unity.”

Wong meanwhile added that Sarawak’s diversity remains a key strength and should continue to serve as a model of unity in diversity for future generations, calling on all Sarawakians to nurture the state’s social fabric with care.