KUCHING: Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Councillor, Eric Tay Tze Kok, voiced his firm support for Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian’s reminder that Sarawak must chart its own development path rooted in unity, openness and respect for diversity, instead of following divisive political narratives from Peninsular Malaysia.
Tay said Dr Sim’s remark, “While Peninsular Malaysia continues to argue over whether alcohol should be served at dinners, Sarawak must go its own way”, clearly illustrates the difference in social mind-set and cultural maturity between Sarawak and Malaya.
“Over the past decade, Sarawak has transformed from a region often underestimated into one that now draws national and international attention precisely because it has consistently upheld the spirit of inclusiveness, rationality and pragmatism,” he said in a recent statement.
He explained that in Sarawak, drinking is viewed as a matter of personal choice and cultural expression, as long as it is done responsibly and within the law.
“We must respect the cultures and lifestyles of all communities. Although Islam is the official religion of our country, Sarawak’s multi-ethnic society has always been built on mutual respect.
“I myself have many Muslim and Malay friends; we understand and respect each other’s beliefs. That is what makes Sarawak truly special,” he added.
Tay stressed that the main objective of organising beer festivals in Sarawak is to promote tourism and stimulate the local economy, showcasing the state’s openness and diversity.
“The beer festival is not about encouraging drinking, but about creating a space for cultural exchange and leisure.
“Many of our Muslim friends also attend to appreciate the decorations and interact with others.
“They understand their religious boundaries yet approach such community events with an open mind. That reflects Sarawak’s harmony and maturity,” he said.
He urged Sarawakians to remain clear-headed and not be swayed by extremist political rhetoric from certain quarters in Peninsular Malaysia.
“Those extreme political agendas only sow division and damage inter-ethnic relationships.
“Sarawak must not, and will not, follow that path of hostility and exclusion. What we must protect are unity, rationality and harmony – the very foundations of our Sarawakian society,” he stressed.
Tay also called on Sarawakians to focus on real priorities such as building human capital and strengthening economic competitiveness in the face of global change.
“The world is changing rapidly. For Sarawak to remain admired, we must face challenges with openness, progressiveness and hard work. Having no money or competitiveness, that’s the real problem, not drinking.
“The Sarawak way is the way of unity and respect. Through our actions, we must prove that Sarawak is not only the most harmonious state in Malaysia, but also the most visionary and broad-minded,” he added.
