LAWAS: Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan has urged the people of Sarawak to continue preserving the unique harmony, unity, and mutual respect that characterise the state’s multicultural society.
Speaking at the Ngiling Tikai Ceremony in conjunction with the Lawas District-level Dayak Festival at Rumah Ajan, Kampung Meragang on Thursday, the Bukit Sari Assemblyman (ADUN) said Sarawakians live like one big family despite their differences in religion, customs, and culture.
“Although we are different in terms of beliefs, customs and culture, we are united as if we are in a big family. The sense of respect, and mutual understanding is deeply ingrained. This is our strength, and we must continue to uphold it,” he said.
He further stressed that the harmony among Sarawak’s multi-religious society must be safeguarded and celebrated through the continued practice of traditional customs and cultural events.
Highlighting the establishment of the Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR), Datuk Amar Awang Tengah said the initiative reflects the state’s firm commitment to nurturing religious harmony and cultural diversity.
“What’s important is that this spirit of unity and cooperation continues to be strengthened. This is what makes Sarawak unique,” he added.
Also present at the ceremony were:
- Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Ismail, Deputy Minister of Food Industry, Commodities and Regional Development
- Dato’ Henry Sum Agong, Member of Parliament for Lawas
- Dato Paulus Palu Gumbang, Batu Danau Assemblyman
- Unus Tambi, Limbang Division Resident
The Ngiling Tikai tradition marks the symbolic end of the Gawai Dayak festival, serving as a powerful reminder of the importance of cultural preservation and community solidarity in Sarawak.
