MIRI: Sarawak’s enduring unity amid its rich cultural diversity remains the state’s greatest strength and the foundation of its continued peace, stability and economic prosperity, Datuk Dr Ripin Lamat said.
Speaking at the ‘Sound of Drums’ cultural night held in conjunction with ‘Taste of Borneo 4.0’, the Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development said the 12-day festival was more than a celebration of Borneo’s cultural heritage.
It was a powerful reflection of the mutual respect, tolerance and cooperation that have long united Sarawakians across ethnic and religious lines.
He was representing Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan.
Speaking before hundreds of spectators at the Boulevard Commercial Centre on Thursday (July 9) night, he said the success of the festival demonstrated how diversity continues to be one of Sarawak’s greatest assets.
He drew on an analogy often used by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, describing Sarawak as a network of rivers where countless tributaries flow together to form one mighty river.
“Every community contributes its own identity, culture and strength. Together, we form a united Sarawak built on mutual respect, understanding and shared aspirations,” he said.
Ripin said festivals such as ‘Taste of Borneo’ played a vital role in strengthening social cohesion by bringing together people from different backgrounds to celebrate each other’s traditions while fostering friendship and understanding.
He stressed that unity and harmony were essential ingredients for sustainable development, noting that the Sarawak Government’s development agenda could only succeed in a peaceful and stable environment.
“Our development programmes are designed to benefit every community. Economic progress can only be achieved when our society remains united, peaceful and secure,” he said.
Ripin added that the state government, under the leadership of Abang Johari, remained committed to driving inclusive economic growth while improving household incomes and creating opportunities for all Sarawakians.
He cited the participation of more than 150 vendors at ‘Taste of Borneo 4.0’ as an example of how the festival had generated business opportunities for local entrepreneurs while stimulating the local economy through tourism and cultural activities.
Ripin also urged Sarawakians to continue safeguarding the state’s harmony, warning that peace and stability should never be taken for granted.
He called on communities to remain united in protecting the values that have made Sarawak a model of peaceful multiculturalism.
Equally important, he said, was the need to preserve the customs, traditions and cultural heritage of every ethnic community for future generations.
