Sarawak exemplifies unity in diversity, says Abang Johari in Christmas message

SIBU: The spirit of unity in diversity is exemplified in Sarawak where people of different religious and racial backgrounds share in the fun and joy of Christmas.

“This is a manifestation of their deep respect for the beliefs, customs, and traditions of their fellow Sarawakians,” said Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg in his Christmas message on Sunday (Dec 24).

“Previously, some places of worship, especially churches and chapels used to be in sorry conditions. That was why as a caring government we set up Unifor (Unit for Other Religions) to make sure that people of other religions other than Islam have a comfortable place to pray and worship,” he said.

Likewise, Abang Johari said some non-Muslim leaders have also shown a similar attitude to the needs of Muslims where they are a minority.

“This is particularly exemplified by the gracious gesture of the wakil rakyat in Belaga who have been most kind to assist the Muslim community there to build a mosque in this upriver town. This is our way and our brand of unity in Sarawak which may not be found in other places,” he added.

Abang Johari said that Unifor was formed not only to hand out funds but also to foster unity and nurture understanding among people of various beliefs and races in Sarawak, among non-Muslims religious communities in particular.

The Premier also shared his hope for the future of the state.

“I have just presented the 2024 state budget in the Dewan Undangan Negeri with a record amount of RM12.36bil. The state’s strong economic performance is indicated by the expanding GDP.

”Under PCDS (Post Covid-19 Development Strategy) 2030 our GDP is expected to grow from RM140bil to RM282bil. Based on the catalytic programmes and the diversifying economy, I am confident that our target of RM282bil by 2030 can be achieved.

”This is my hope and our hope for our Sarawak – to become a developed region with high income by 2030 where everyone enjoys economic prosperity derived from sustainable and renewable resources,” he added.