Dr Sim: Sarawak’s progress lies in mutual respect, harmony

BINTULU (Feb 24): The long-standing harmony among Sarawak’s multi-racial communities remains a cornerstone for implementing the state’s development agenda in an inclusive and sustainable manner, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.

He emphasised that unity based on mutual respect for culture, religion and way of life has created a stable and conducive social environment for economic growth and overall progress.

“In Sarawak, cultural matters such as alcohol consumption or pig farming do not become polemical issues because people understand and respect the diversity that exists.

“This is our strength.

“We do not turn differences into problems, but rather use them as a foundation of trust,” he said in Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas) report during the Chinese New Year 2026 open house hosted by the Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) Bintulu branch at Dewan Suarah Bintulu on Sunday.

The event drew about 2,500 visitors from various races and backgrounds.

Dr Sim, who is also SUPP president, said the practice of open houses during various festive celebrations in Sarawak symbolises the deep trust among communities and reflects the society’s maturity in embracing diversity.

He added that Sarawak’s development goes beyond economic and infrastructure progress, but also focusing on societal values, education and human capital development.

This is further supported by the state’s improving financial position through structured economic policies, allowing for expanded investments in education and local talent development.

“The next five years are crucial for Sarawak as we move towards sustainable development by 2030, and this success requires the unity of all the people,” he added.

Also present were Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development II Datuk Majang Renggi, Bintulu Division Resident Datu Nyurak Keti, community leaders and representatives of local associations.