Sarawak CNY Open House reflects unity, inclusivity, says Deputy Premier

KUCHING (Feb 17): The Sarawak state-level Chinese New Year (CNY) Open House today once again reflected the state’s unique spirit of unity and inclusivity, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.

He said the tradition of organising state-level open houses for major festivals, including CNY and Hari Raya, demonstrates Sarawak’s commitment to inclusivity as part of its nation-building efforts.

“We are very proud that the Premier has always insisted that there are Sarawak government Chinese New Year Open House and Sarawak government Hari Raya Open House.

“This is Sarawak, which is part of inclusivity,” he said during the open house at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK).

Dr Sim said the strong turnout, with an estimated 5,000 people expected, showed that Sarawakians from all walks of life continue to embrace the open house tradition.

“You see the old, you see the young, you see the Chinese, you see the Iban, you see the Malay. People come dressed in their best costume, in their own traditions. This is the best of Sarawak.

“Open house means open house. You do not need to get invited. People really welcome you. This is a very important part of Sarawak nation-building,” he said.

He noted that many societies around the world today are divided by politicking and polarisation, which hampers progress.

“When there is division and polarisation, you cannot move forward. That’s why in 2026, the whole nation looks at Sarawak as an example of how we can come together and move forward together,” he said.

Dr Sim stressed that Sarawak’s prosperity must be anchored on shared values and collective responsibility, not merely wealth.

“We don’t want people to look at Sarawak just because we are rich. Nation-building means we need values and to be proud of Sarawak.

“It is not only what the country can do for you, but also what you can do for the country. It goes both ways,” he said.

He added that beyond the celebrations, the essence of Chinese New Year lies in family reunion and good health.

“This is a Sarawak family reunion. The most important thing is to stay healthy. If not healthy, go to the hospital. Take care of yourself,” he said.

The open house was graced by the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, along with state Cabinet ministers, community leaders and members of the public.