KOTA PADAWAN: The aroma of grilled seafood and chicken filled the air at Ramadan Bazaar in Kota Padawan as visitors of all backgrounds gathered ahead of the breaking of fast, reflecting Sarawak’s distinct culture of togetherness.
Batu Kitang state assemblyman, Datuk Lo Khere Chiang, officiated the event with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and later presented aprons and hats sponsored by CCK Fresh Mart to participating vendors.
Organised by the Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) in collaboration with SABERKAS Batu Kitang, the bazaar features 30 vendors comprising of traders from various races and religious backgrounds.
Lo said the annual Ramadan programme hosted by MPP together with local non-governmental organisations continues to strengthen unity at the grassroots level.
“This is a very good programme because it nurtures unity among the multiracial communities in Sarawak,” he said when met by reporters during the walkabout session.
He added that Sarawak’s many intermarriages, including Chinese with Iban and Iban with Malay, further illustrate the state’s social cohesion.
“This is Sarawak. We celebrate together. You can see all races taking part in activities, whether lion dance or line dancing. We are united,” he said.
When asked about compliance, Lo confirmed that all 30 vendors adhered to the standard operating procedures set and standardised by MPP, particularly in terms of health and safety requirements before being allowed to operate.
On behalf of the organising committee, he invited the public to visit the bazaar, highlighting ample parking spaces and the absence of parking fees as added convenience for visitors.
“Come up to Kota Padawan, enjoy the food and support the people here,” he said.
