By Sivanesan Sanmugalingam
KUCHING: The spirit of “Segulai Sejalai” (Together in Unity), a hallmark of Sarawakian life, shone brightly as Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah paid a Deepavali visit to the home of Indian community head, Penghulu Lucy Lingam.
The visit offered a heartfelt glimpse into Sarawak’s enduring racial and religious harmony, a living example of unity that the minister hailed as a model for Malaysia.
Held in conjunction with the Festival of Lights on Sunday (Oct 20), the gathering at Lingam’s residence brought together a colourful mix of friends, neighbours, and families from various ethnic and faith backgrounds, all sharing festive cheer, conversation, and traditional Indian delicacies.
Fatimah expressed deep admiration for the genuine sense of togetherness she witnessed.
“What we see here today, in this simple, welcoming home, is the true essence of Sarawak.
“This is not an event staged for cameras; it is the natural, lived experience of our people. Seeing so many races and faiths gathered under one roof, sharing laughter and respect, confirms that our unity in diversity is our greatest strength”, she said.
The minister also lauded Lingam, one of Sarawak’s pioneering female Indian community leaders, for her steadfast role in promoting cross-cultural friendship and inclusivity.
“Penghulu Lucy is a pillar of her community, and her hospitality reflects the openness and tolerance that define Sarawakians. She opens her doors and all of Sarawak walks in,” Fatimah remarked.
Visibly moved by the visit, Lingam said the warmth and participation of her friends from all walks of life reflected the Sarawak way of life built on mutual respect and empathy.
“In Sarawak, we celebrate each other’s festivals as our own. My neighbours and friends, regardless of their background, are like family. This is how we have always lived,” she said.
“The bonds we build during these shared moments, be it Deepavali, Hari Raya, Gawai, Christmas, or Chinese New Year, are what strengthen us as one people.”
Fatimah stressed the importance of consciously safeguarding this spirit of unity for future generations.
“Sarawak’s multicultural heritage is a treasure that must be protected. In our state, it’s not unusual to find a non-Indian as the patron of Indian associations.
“I myself am proud to serve as Patron of the Sarawak Indian Women’s Association (SIWA) and the Sarawak Silambam Association, which promotes an ancient Indian martial art.”
She added that while the Indian community in Sarawak may be small in number, it remains strong through solidarity and the support of their neighbours and friends.
“In times of joy or challenge, Sarawakians stand together. This is our strength, our spirit of Segulai Sejalai that the rest of the country can emulate,” she said.
