MIRI: Governor Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, and his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, attended the Federation of Chinese Associations Miri Division’s Grand Chinese New Year Celebration Banquet Dinner 2025, last night (Feb 17).
The vibrant event took place at the Eastwood Valley Golf & Country Club, Miri, and was filled with colourful performances showcasing local Chinese culture and the rich ethnic diversity of Sarawak.
The evening highlighted Sarawak’s multicultural harmony, with leaders and community members coming together to celebrate the Lunar New Year.
Among the distinguished guests were Minister for Transport Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin; Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah; Deputy Minister for Women, Childhood and Community Development (Women and Childhood Development) Datuk Rosey Yunus; Telang Usan assemblyman Datuk Dennis Ngau; Miri Mayor Adam Yii Siew Sang; and president of the Federation of Chinese Associations Miri Division Datuk David Goh Kien Ping.
Representatives from 76 affiliated Chinese associations across Miri also attended to enliven the festivities.
In his opening address, Lee praised the Sarawak government, under the leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, for its commitment to inclusivity and fairness.
He highlighted key initiatives, such as continued support for Chinese schools and the establishment of the Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR), which provides financial aid to mission schools and houses of worship.
“These efforts reflect our government’s firm belief that Sarawak’s development must be inclusive, respecting the diversity of our people and ensuring equal opportunities for all,” said Lee.
He also emphasised the importance of preserving harmony in the state.
“Harmony does not happen by chance. It is something we must cherish, nurture, and protect. It requires understanding, tolerance, and, most importantly, a commitment to unity despite our differences.
“We must never take this for granted, as it is the foundation upon which Sarawak’s peace and prosperity are built,” he said.
Lee commended the Federation of Chinese Associations Miri Division for organising an event that transcends cultural boundaries, describing the banquet as a celebration for all Sarawakians.
“Tonight’s Grand Chinese New Year Celebration Banquet Dinner is a true reflection of Sarawak’s multicultural spirit, where people of different races and religions come together. It is heartwarming to see this gathering embracing all communities, reinforcing the deep bonds of friendship and harmony that define us as Sarawakians.”
Lee also touched on the unique way Sarawakians celebrate each other’s festivals.
“During Chinese New Year, it is heart warming to see Sarawakians of all backgrounds donning bright red traditional Chinese attire, visiting friends, and joining in the festivities. Similarly, during Ramadan, the much-loved bazaars attract people from all communities, just as Hari Raya and Gawai bring everyone together to share in traditional customs and delicacies. This is the true essence of Sarawak — a land where racial and religious harmony is not just an aspiration but a way of life.”
The celebration featured a variety of traditional performances, underscoring the unity and diversity that make Sarawak a model of multicultural harmony.
