SERIAN: Sarawak’s long-standing religious harmony continues to be reflected in rural communities where residents of different faiths live together peacefully.
Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister and Tarat assemblyman, Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn said Kampung Sungai Riset exemplifies this spirit of unity.
He said the village has three places of worship – two churches and one surau – serving residents from the same Bidayuh community who practise different religions.
“This is not about giving a lecture on religion. What we want to show the world, our country and our state is that in Sarawak we can gather together without regard to religion, customs or race.
“In this village there are three places of worship – two churches and one surau – yet the people continue living together as one community.
“This shows the uniqueness of Sarawak and the strong spirit of tolerance among our people,” he said during the ‘Program UKAS Bersama Komuniti Semarak Ramadan’ event at Surau Kampung Sungai Riset on Saturday night (Mar 7).
On the programme, Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS) Director, Awang Putrayusrie Awang Redzuan, who was present, said the initiative aimed to strengthen engagement between UKAS and local communities.
He said UKAS, under the Premier’s Department, is responsible for disseminating information on government initiatives, policies and assistance to the public.
He added that various forms of assistance are available, including programmes related to education, families, women, senior citizens and other welfare initiatives.
“There are many initiatives available, so residents should not miss the opportunity to obtain information through UKAS.
“Our role is to work together with district offices, resident offices and service centres to explain these initiatives to the community,” he said.
He added that the department also presented contributions to those in need during the programme.
“It may not be much, but it reflects our concern and reminds the community that no one is forgotten,” he said.
