‘Manage differences wisely, respect one another’: Unity in diversity key to M’sia future — Minister

Tiong (sixth left) and others at the Pre-Gawai and Kaamatan Dinner 2026 organised by the Pasar Budaya Borneo Association Seri Kembangan in Puchong, Selangor, on May 3, 2026. Photo: Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, May 4: In a world with many differing views, there are bound to be disagreements, which is why we need to be wiser in managing our differences and discussing them respectfully while continuing to respect one another.

According to the Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, Malaysia’s strength is in its diversity, and that strength will endure only if everyone safeguards it together.

Speaking on his attendance at the Pre-Gawai and Kaamatan Dinner 2026 organised by the Pasar Budaya Borneo Association Seri Kembangan in Puchong, Selangor, on Sunday (May 3), Tiong, who is also the assemblyman for Dudong and Bintulu MP, said such initiatives benefit small traders and local artisans.

“Efforts like these should be continued, as they create opportunities while strengthening community ties.

“Places like Pasar Budaya Borneo play an important role as spaces where culture and traditions can continue to be shared and understood together.

“It is not merely an economic activity, but also a bridge that brings people from diverse backgrounds closer. This is where the identity, heritage and culture of Sabah and Sarawak continue to live on and are shared with all Malaysians,” he said in a Facebook post.

He added that the cultures of Sabah and Sarawak are rich and unique, from their food and handicrafts to customs and traditions.

“No matter where we are, this heritage must be preserved and passed on so that future generations can continue to recognise and experience it.

Let us move forward with a spirit of mutual respect—valuing our own cultures while also understanding those of others. From this comes lasting harmony,” he said. — DayakDaily