Great turnout: Visitors queuing to enter Abang Johari’s Raya open house at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching on the first day of Hari Raya. — ZULAZHAR SHEBLEE/ The Star
KUCHING: The open house tradition in Sarawak is a showcase of the state’s unity and harmony as people from all walks of life join in festive celebrations, says Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg.
The Sarawak Premier said this could be seen at his Hari Raya open house at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching, which was attended by visitors from all races and faiths.
“This shows the harmony that we have in Sarawak. We pray that it will continue so that we can maintain a good ecosystem to bring development to our people of all races,” he told reporters at the open house on Monday.
More than 13,000 people attended the event on the first day of Hari Raya, many dressed in traditional costumes.
Abang Johari said the open house also reflected the strong ties between the state leadership and the people of Sarawak.
“This will enable us to move forward with confidence in the spirit of Aidilfitri,” he said.
Abang Johari reiterated Sarawak’s target of becoming a high-income and developed state by 2030, supported by robust infrastructure including roads and bridges.
With 16 bridges to be constructed by 2028, he said the improved coastal road network, along with water and electricity supply, would spur rural development.
“Our air infrastructure will also be improved with our own airline, AirBorneo, which means Sarawak will no longer be isolated, but we will have a stronger economic network.
“This will be further supported by our green energy policies, giving Sarawak a bright future,” Abang Johari said.
