Ting visits 24 families during CNY, highlights unity as festivities coincide with Ramadan

MIRI (Feb 20): Sarawak Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew spent the second and third days of Chinese New Year visiting 24 families, comprising party members and friends, in keeping with his annual festive tradition.

Ting, who was accompanied by several councillors from the Miri City Council (MCC) as well as party members, said such visits were a meaningful way to strengthen ties and celebrate the festive season together.

“Chinese New Year is not only an important celebration for the Chinese community, but also a meaningful occasion to foster closer relationships and reinforce unity,” he said in a press release on Friday.

He also conveyed his appreciation to party members and friends for their continued support and cooperation, while extending his wishes for good health, family happiness and career success in the Year of the Horse.

Ting noted that Sarawak’s multi-ethnic and multi-religious society has long practised mutual respect and harmonious living, making the state a model of unity for the nation.

He pointed out that this year’s celebration holds added significance as the third day of Chinese New Year coincides with the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan for Muslims.

“It is indeed meaningful that we celebrate Chinese New Year while welcoming Ramadan at the same time. This reflects the spirit of harmony and unity among the people of Sarawak,” he said.

According to him, both Chinese New Year and Ramadan emphasise the values of gratitude, sharing and compassion.

“In Sarawak, we respect one another’s cultures and are always open to celebrating festivals together. The spirit of mutual respect and exchanging festive greetings is among our greatest assets,” he added.

Meanwhile, Ting announced that he will be hosting a Chinese New Year Open House and breaking-of-fast event will be held on the fifth day of Chinese New Year, Feb 21, from 5pm to 9pm at Dewan Suarah Miri.

The public from all communities are invited to attend the event, which aims to bring together people of diverse backgrounds in a warm and friendly atmosphere while showcasing the harmony of Sarawak’s plural society.