Tolerance, harmony between religions Sarawak's power - Rosey

MIRI, 5 Oct: The new generation must ensure that the values of tolerance and inter-religious harmony which have become Sarawak's strength continue to be preserved and inherited in the future.

Sarawak Deputy Minister of Women and Child Development, Datuk Rosey Yunus said that today's society has a responsibility to continue the foundation of unity built by previous leaders.

"We in Sarawak are so grateful that we have freedom to practice our beliefs and religions. We can live in security and exercise faith without fear.

"At the same time, we respect each other's beliefs and cultures. This is our strength in Sarawak", he said, speaking at the 10th Anniversary Welcome Meeting of Chee Yan Khor Moral Uplifting Society here last night.

Rosey said that mutual respect and tolerance between communities from different backgrounds should continue to be strengthened as it is the foundation for state unity.

He said the existence of the Unit for Affairs of Other Religions (UNIFOR) also reflects Sarawak's efforts in ensuring that communities of different religions and beliefs can practice their customs, cultures and beliefs.

Today's society, he said, also has a responsibility to continue the foundation that was built by previous leaders.

"We're here because of the previous leader. We are strong because of what they have built.

"Now we are leaders and we are building the foundation for future generations. If past leaders have planned and built for us, we must carry on to pass that legacy on to the next generation", he added.

He believes that young people will find it easier to live up to these values when they see themselves as a society of diverse backgrounds capable of working together and living in harmony.

"First, we need to work together. Second, we need to ensure that the new generation continues our legacy.

"When we show them that we can unite and work together, that's what they will follow in the future", he said.

The council also brought together members and participants from various areas in Sarawak including Serian, Kapit and Lawas, thus reflecting the network of connections built over the 10 years of establishment of the organisation. - TVS