KUCHING: Serian District Council chairman, Datuk Peter Minos, extends his warm wishes to the Chinese community in conjunction with the upcoming Chinese New Year, expressing appreciation for their contributions and longstanding friendship.
“We wish our Chinese friends and relatives a happy and joyful Chinese New Year 2026,” he said.
Reflecting on his early years, Minos recalled fond memories of celebrating the festive season with Chinese friends in Bau in the early 1960s.
He pointed out that over the years, the Chinese community in Bau had prospered through hard work and perseverance.
“Chinese New Year reminds me of my Chinese friends in Bau in the early days – the visits, the angpows given, the warmth and friendship of the Bau Chinese who all spoke Bidayuh, and their garden and farm houses.
“They have toiled very, very hard in the pepper gardens and rubber gardens. True to their Chinese New Year wishes -to be happy and prosperous – many are now living in nice shoplots and beautiful houses,” he added.
Minos said he deeply respects the Chinese community for their strong work ethic and determination.
He also acknowledged the role of the Chinese community in Sarawak’s development.
“They are hardworking, determined in improving their educational and economic status, focused in whatever they do, and of course intelligent. In Sarawak, the Chinese built our towns and cities, our industries, our public infrastructure and utilities. They are the ones who have the capital, expertise and abilities,” he said.
Minos encouraged unity and mutual learning among communities.
“We Bumis can admire them and try to emulate their successes. While in Samarahan and now in Serian, I salute the Chinese for doing and getting things done. They are truly admirable. I hope the Bumis observe and learn from them so that we can prosper together,” he said.
