Festive unity guards against extremism

BAU: Sarawak Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin has praised the state’s unity amidst diversity during festive celebrations.

According to Lee, Sarawak’s unique strength lies in the unified celebration of various festivities by people of different ethnicities and religions that distinguishes Sarawakians from others.

“It is important for us to continue nurturing and preserving this tradition of unity,” he said.

Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin (right) speaking at a press conference. On the left is Datuk Henry Harry Jinep.

At Deputy Minister of Transport (Riverine and Maritime) Datuk Henry Harry Jinep’s Christmas Open House, Lee observed that festivities like Christmas, Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, and Gawai are enthusiastically celebrated by all communities, fostering joy and strong interpersonal bonds.

“Such celebrations are integral to our lifestyle, focusing on mutual respect and understanding. We must remain dedicated to safeguarding this harmonious existence,” he added.

Lee also said unequivocally that extremist ideologies are incompatible with the state’s vision of harmony and development.

“Extremism, which contradicts our vision of peace and harmony, has no place in Sarawak,” he said.

Lee further said that achieving the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) goals, aimed at making Sarawak a high-income state by 2030 depends heavily on unity and collaboration among its people.