KUCHING: Sarawak’s success story must continue to be built on the strength of moral values, education and interfaith harmony.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said while economic growth and infrastructure remain vital, faith-based values and mutual respect among diverse communities are what truly define Sarawak’s resilience and unity.
“Progress must not be measured solely through academic or material achievements.
“It must also include moral and spiritual development — the qualities that make us compassionate and responsible citizens,” he said.
He was speaking during the Celebration of Twin Holy Days of the Sarawak Baha’i Community in conjunction with UNIFOR’s interfaith programme here last night.
Dr Sim praised Sarawak’s unique model of religious harmony, crediting institutions like the Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR) for nurturing understanding and mutual respect among faiths.
“Through UNIFOR, the Sarawak government remains deeply committed to ensuring that every faith community has the space and support it needs to flourish,” he said.
He said the Bahá’í community’s teachings on unity, education, and service resonate strongly with the government’s aspiration to build a cohesive and enlightened society.
“The Bahá’í Faith reminds us that all of humanity are ‘fruits of one tree and leaves of one branch.
“The progress of one cannot be separated from the well-being of all,” he said.
Dr Sim highlighted that the government’s push for free tertiary education in state-owned universities starting next year is part of Sarawak’s effort to strengthen both intellectual and moral foundations for future generations.
He also lauded the Bahá’í community’s grassroots initiatives — including youth education, character-building programmes, and social upliftment projects — as examples of how faith communities can contribute to civic progress.
“True success depends not only on what the government provides, but on the spirit of our people — their willingness to learn, to lead, and to serve,” he said.
The event, attended by UNIFOR director Datuk Georgina Apphia Ngau, her spouse Peter Bryan Morrison, and representatives of various faith groups, was held to commemorate the Bahá’í holy days marking the Birth of the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh.
Dr. Sim hoped interfaith celebrations such as these would continue to serve as platforms for promoting peace, understanding, and unity among Sarawakians.
“This celebration is a reminder of our shared humanity, and of Sarawak’s enduring example to the world that diversity is our greatest strength,” he said.
