KUCHING: Sarawak’s peaceful and united social fabric must be cherished and protected by the younger generation to ensure the state continues to thrive.
Yayasan Perpaduan Sarawak deputy chairman Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr George Chan Hong Nam highlighted that harmony is the most precious strength Sarawak possesses and the cornerstone of its development.
He reminded the 60 youth participants that unity has long enabled Sarawak to progress steadily, standing out as a peaceful and stable state admired not only within Malaysia but also abroad.
“Whatever you do, whatever you dream of, the most important thing is that you have harmony. And that is what Sarawak has,” he said in his speech during the opening of Projek SUARA 2.0 at Raia Hotel & Convention Centre here today.
He further stressed that peace and unity remain essential for continued growth.
Dr Chan said such harmony did not emerge spontaneously but was built through the foresight and hard work of past leaders who laid the groundwork for diverse communities to coexist in mutual respect.
He added that Sarawak’s multicultural cohesion has been recognised internationally, noting that even Singapore has regarded the state’s unity as commendable given its wide racial and cultural diversity.
“That is due to our forefathers who were able to set the state for us to work together as one people,” he said, calling on today’s youth to honour and preserve that legacy.
Dr Chan urged the participants to ensure that the harmony they enjoy today is not taken for granted but is maintained through everyday actions, community engagement and responsible leadership.
He said their role extends beyond the programme itself, encouraging them to continue discussions on unity and development with their friends and peers once they return to their respective divisions.
“It is important that you share what you have learned so that other youth will be open to the ideas we have for the future.
“Make sure you have not wasted the few days you are here,” he said.
Projek SUARA 2.0, organised by Yayasan Perpaduan Sarawak, serves as a platform for youth to engage in discourse, build understanding of state policies and strengthen their role in promoting unity within their communities.
