Safeguard unity, convey policies, Lee reminds KMKKs

MIRI (Feb 11): Community leaders and village chiefs (KMKKs) have been urged to remain committed to safeguarding public welfare, preserving harmony in Sarawak’s multiracial society and accurately conveying government policies and initiatives at the grassroots level.

Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin said Sarawak’s rich diversity of races and cultures is the state’s greatest strength and must be protected from external influences that could undermine unity among the people.

He stressed that community leaders play a vital role as a bridge between the government and the people, particularly in ensuring that policies and initiatives are clearly understood and effectively implemented at the community level.

“We have long lived in harmony. People of different races can sit together, eat and drink together without any problems,” he said.

“This is the Sarawakian way of life that must be preserved and strengthened.”

Lee was speaking at a ceremony to present reappointment certificates to appointed KMKKs, held at the Miri Resident’s Office here on Monday afternoon.

He cautioned Sarawakians against adopting external lifestyles that are not aligned with local culture and traditions, urging instead the continued practice of mutual respect, cooperation and tolerance.

Lee noted that the harmony enjoyed in Sarawak is reflected in everyday life, including at coffee shops, food stalls, Ramadan bazaars and Chinese New Year bazaars, where traders of various races operate side by side.

He added that festive celebrations in the state are often shared regardless of racial or religious background.

“This diversity is not a weakness, but a strength and a uniqueness that we should be proud of, and which can serve as an example to others,” he said.

He also reminded KMKKs to ensure that information on government policies and initiatives is conveyed accurately and based on verified sources to avoid confusion.

For matters that are unclear, they were advised to seek clarification from the Resident’s Office or the District Office.

At the ceremony, 20 KMKKs in the Miri district received their reappointment letters, including Temenggong Yong Vui Seng, Pemanca Fong Siew Ming, Penghulu Samad Alip @ Laip, and Penghulu Nasi Rahim.

Also present were Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew, Miri Resident Galong Luang, and Miri District officer Siti Rohanie Yusof.