Warm welcome: Abang Johari (left) and his wife Puan Sri Juma’ani Tuanku Bujang greeting guests at their Raya open house at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching. — ZULAZHAR SHEBLEE/The Star
KUCHING: For Sarawakians, Hari Raya Aidilfitri is a time for everyone to celebrate together, regardless of race or religion.
Thousands of guests from various backgrounds attended Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s Raya open house at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching, demonstrating this unity in diversity.
Among them was John Tarawe, who came all the way from Bario in the remote Kelabit highlands.
“We can see the blend of different ethnic groups here. We all mingle around and everyone is celebrating together.
“That’s the ‘Segulai Sejalai’ spirit of Sarawakians,” he said, referring to an Iban phrase that means “together in unity”.
John, who attended the open house with 30 members from the Federation of Orang Ulu Associations Sarawak Malaysia, said they would never miss the occasion.
“It’s worth making the trip from Bario, as it’s not every day we celebrate like this. I think Sarawakians agree that anything that brings us together is good,” he added.
Datuk Dr Kalwinder Singh Khaira said it was the norm and tradition in Sarawak for everyone to celebrate all festive occasions together.
“This is one of the events that showcases the unity of Sarawak. At an open house like this, we always take the time to mingle and meet up with one another.
“This is something that all Sarawakians value,” he said.
Abang Johari said the large crowd showed Sarawak’s unity because the guests came from different ethnic groups and religions.
“It’s a sign that the people in Sarawak are very cohesive. The unity that we have prevails and should be preserved.
“In other places, there is a lot of divisive sentiment being expressed by certain parties, but in Sarawak, we keep on an even keel,” he said.
“Our unity is the foundation for us to move forward. This is good for Sarawak and we have to maintain that,” he added.
