KUCHING: Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, the Premier, emphasized the unity in diversity displayed in Sarawak, where people from various religious and racial backgrounds live harmoniously and respect each other in his Christmas message. He stated, “This is a manifestation of the deep respect for the beliefs, customs and traditions among all Sarawakians.”
Abang Johari mentioned the state government’s aim to ensure the proper maintenance of places of worship, as a reflection of Sarawak’s social inclusiveness. He also highlighted the establishment of Unifor (Unit for Other Religions) which ensures people of faiths other than Islam have comfortable places to pray and worship.
Likewise, non-Muslim leaders in Sarawak reciprocate when Muslims are a minority in a particular area. Abang Johari specifically mentioned the elected representative for Belaga (Datuk Liwan Lagang) who has been actively supporting the Muslim community to build a mosque in the upriver town, as an example.
He added that Unifor was created not only to provide funds but also to promote unity and understanding among people of various beliefs and races in Sarawak.
Abang Johari also expressed optimism about the state’s future, citing the record RM12.36bil state budget for 2024. He emphasized the state’s economic growth and the PCDS (Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy) 2030, with an expected increase in GDP from RM140bil to RM282bil, based on catalytic programmes and economic diversification.
In Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor urged Sabahans to celebrate the festive period in unity and uphold diversity and all faiths, in line with the state government’s commitment to ensure unity, racial harmony, and religious tolerance remained strong.
He warned against playing up religious and racial sentiments as it could jeopardize the harmony and tolerance enjoyed in Sabah. Hajiji Noor also urged everyone to reflect on the similarities that bind them together and focus on strengthening those values during the Christmas period.
