Inclusive policy in Sarawak emphasises peace, harmony, says Douglas Uggah

KUCHING: Sarawak's inclusive policy emphasises peace and harmony within the state's multicultural society, says Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah.

He said this was shown by the setting up of the Unit for Other Religions (Unifor) under the Sarawak Premier's Department to manage the needs of other faiths in the state.

"Peace and harmony are key enablers towards ushering Sarawak to be a developed state by 2030.

"Thus, this Wesak, I call on all Sarawakian Buddhists as well as Sarawakians of other faiths to consolidate our efforts to maintain the peace and harmony we enjoy now, so that we can move together in pursuit of a peaceful and prosperous Sarawak," he said at the Sarawak Wesak Day celebration here on Thursday (May 4).

His speech was read by Deputy Premier Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian.

Also present were National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang, state Deputy Public Health, Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Dr Penguang Manggil, Kuching South mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng and leaders of various faiths.

Uggah said this was the second year the Wesak celebration was jointly organised by Unifor and the Malaysian Buddhists Association Sarawak Branch.

He said Unifor would continue to organise joint events with other religious institutions in Sarawak.

"I hope that with more joint activities like this, we can all come together even closer and continue to live as one in peace and harmony," he said.

Uggah also said this year marked the 60th anniversary of Sarawak's independence from British colonial rule, which will be celebrated on July 22.

"This anniversary aims to foster the sense of belonging and pride as Sarawakians and to strengthen unity among the people as we live harmoniously with mutual respect and tolerance for each other despite differences in race, religion and culture," he said.