MUKAH: Sarawak’s ethnic, religious and cultural diversity continues to serve as a strong foundation for maintaining social harmony while supporting the state’s development agenda.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said the state’s multiracial communities remain united and cooperative despite their different backgrounds.
“Our differences are not a barrier, but rather a strength that unites the people of Sarawak,” he was quoted as saying in an UKAS report at the opening ceremony of the Kaul and Keman Kaul 2026 Festival here on Saturday, representing Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
According to him, the diversity that defines Sarawak must be preserved as it is a key element in building a stable and progressive society.
He also recalled an analogy by the late Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud, who described Sarawak as a collection of tributaries that eventually merge into one great river.
At the same time, Awang Tengah said the organisation of Kaul Mukah should continue as a platform to strengthen unity among the people, while promoting the uniqueness of local culture, including traditional food, fashion and handicrafts.
“Programmes like this are important to ensure Sarawak continues to progress and prosper in line with the aspirations of the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030,” he said.
At the same event, he also presented a contribution of RM50,000 to the Mukah Melanau Association to support its activities.
Meanwhile, Kaul Mukah 2026 Main Organising Committee chairman and Balingian assemblyman Abdul Yakub Arbi said the Mukah Melanau Association (PMM) has introduced a new approach in organising the Kaul Mukah festival.
He said the festival has been transformed from a ritual ceremony into a large-scale cultural event that combines traditional elements with modern management.
“This initiative involves the use of technology and improvement in infrastructure to ensure the event is more organised, dynamic and visitor-friendly.
“This step is important to ensure Kaul Mukah remains relevant and continues to attract younger generations as well as international tourists without compromising its historical value,” he said.
He added that the effort elevates Kaul Mukah from merely an annual event into a prestigious festival that meets high standards of event management.
