KUCHING: Unity and integration are the main ingredients to achieve economic, social and political stability in a pluralistic society.
Minister of Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah said that when unity and solidarity are strong, development is easy to implement.
“Not only that, social wellbeing continues to increase to achieve economic prosperity, social inclusion and environmental sustainability,” she said when speaking at the closing ceremony of the National Unity Week 2023 at Kuching Waterfront, today.
Fatimah said, unity does not come rolling in and it needs to be nurtured and planted in the fabric of the community here from a young age so that these values can be applied throughout life.
“Through continuous solidarity activities in the community, I believe we can appreciate the value and importance of good relationships so that it can be improved regardless of gender, age, ethnicity and religion.
“In a society that is united and intact, balanced development is easier to achieve because economic and physical development can be carried out in a prosperous, peaceful and harmonious social environment,” she said.
Through the National Unity Week here, Fatimah said various activities have been implemented throughout the programme that can foster community harmony through moments of unity.
Among them are the Unity Walk, Kembara Ilmu Programme, exhibition of 17 Ethnic Houses consisting of Malay, Melanau, Kayan, Kenyah, Chinese, Iban, Lunbawang, Bidayuh, Kedayan, Indian, Bugis, Vaie, Salako Rara, Jatti Miriek, Kadazan Dusun Murut Rungus (KDMR) and Orang Asli Mah Meri, 60 Years of Malaysia and Malaysia exhibition.
“Thus, I am honoured that the Ministry of National Unity has honoured Sarawak to be the location of the National Unity Week 2023 Celebration.
“As a Sarawakian, I consider this a recognition of the culture of mutual respect for each other in the community of multiple races, religions and lineages in this region,” she said.
