KUCHING: Sarawak’s nation-building efforts must be rooted in the values of peace, harmony and compassion, not just in words but in real, consistent action, says Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.
He said that peace, harmony and compassion are concepts often discussed, but rarely put into practice in daily life.
“This topic is actually easy to talk about, but difficult to practice. I mean, a lot of people talk a lot, but to practice, right, is very challenging,” he added.
“And this topic is timely, because at this point of time, it’s very important as part of Sarawak nation building. We are building up Sarawak as a nation. And this is increasingly challenging.”
Dr Sim said this at the Kuching International Roundtable Forum on Peace, Harmony and Compassion 2025 held at Tun Abang Salahuddin Islamic Centre (PITAS), Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) today.
He stressed that these values must be applied across all levels of society, from homes and schools to communities and leadership.
“Whether at home, in the community, at university, or in government, everyone has a role. At the political level, it’s about creating policies that reflect these values,” he said.
“At the university level, it’s not just about character building but nurturing values like appreciation for peace and harmony.”
He also noted the importance of harmony with nature, not just among people.
“Harmony is not only human-to-human. We need harmony with the environment as well,” he added.
The forum, he said, serves as a meaningful platform to share perspectives, learn from one another and reflect on both what to do and what to avoid.
Coming together, he further said, is an important starting point.
“There’s no question that we share many similarities despite our differences. After all, our DNA is largely the same. If yours were too different, you wouldn’t be human,” he opined.
He also spoke about Sarawak’s transformation in recent years, noting that the state has earned new respect as it grows economically stronger.
“Five years ago, we were not rich. People used to look down on us. But now that Sarawak is rising, suddenly they want to call us brother and sister.
“So, we must now share our values, the values of unity, compassion and peace, as we continue building Sarawak’s future,” he added.
He also urged Sarawakians not to leave peace, harmony and compassion as mere ideals, but to live them out daily.
“It doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time, exchange, understanding, and most of all, courage. Each and every one of us must play our part. Practice matters more than theory,” Dr Sim stressed.
