KUCHING: The spirit of unity and inclusivity must remain the cornerstone of Sarawak’s progress, said Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Law, MA63 and State-Federal Relations), Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali.
Hasidah stressed that Sarawak is a model of religious and cultural harmony, noting that it is the only state in Malaysia with a Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR), which provides grants to various religious organisations to ensure equitable support.
“Inclusivity is not just a slogan for us – it is our way forward. Whether you live in the city or in rural areas, whether you are a woman or of any gender, Muslim or Christian, everyone must move forward together,” she said.
She said this during the Muslim Welfare Organisation of Malaysia’s (PERKIM’s) Fun Zumba 2025 event at The Edge, Saradise, this morning.
On Sarawak’s development goals, Hasidah expressed confidence in the state’s ability to achieve high-income status by 2030 through unity and cooperation.
“We are here not just to socialise or exercise, but to build bonds across communities. Together, we will reach our vision of a prosperous Sarawak,” she said.
On the event, she said she was glad to see such a huge crowd coming together.
“This is a lovely morning – perhaps a little cloudy, but still a wonderful day to come together and enjoy meaningful activities like today’s Zumba.
“The weather may be gloomy, but our spirit is brighter than the clouds. Let us enjoy ourselves and continue supporting good causes like PERKIM,” she said.
She also commended Kota Sentosa Assemblyman, Wilfred Yap Sau Sin, for attending and contributing RM3,000 to PERKIM.
As a sign of her own support, she also announced a personal contribution of RM5,000 to support PERKIM’s charitable efforts.
“Though PERKIM is an Islamic organisation, our mission in Sarawak is inclusive. We serve everyone regardless of race, religion, gender or background. This is the Sarawak way – no one is left behind,” she said.
The event, which drew about 400 participants, including non-governmental organisation (NGO) representatives and local leaders, was part of PERKIM Sarawak’s ongoing outreach to promote unity, wellness and charity among Sarawakians.
