BETONG – The residents of Kampung Melayu Betong welcomed Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development of Sarawak, Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu, and his wife, Datin Rosemarie Wong, during their Hari Raya Aidilfitri visit on the third day of the celebration.
The couple visited several homes, including those of Councillor Abdul Rahim Jaini, Head of Kampung Baru Hilir Kamar Lugom, Head of Kampung Baru Hulu Shamsul Anuar, former Head of Kampung Pasa Melayu Rokiah Mahmud, and Head of Kampung Pasa Melayu Jeffery Serini.
During the gathering, Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu, who is also the Layar State Assemblyman, highlighted the importance of maintaining traditions of mutual support between leaders and the community.
He stressed that the practice of visiting across racial and cultural lines during festive seasons must be preserved to safeguard Sarawak’s harmony.
He noted that this spirit of unity is evident when communities of different backgrounds visit Malay households during Hari Raya Aidilfitri, reflecting Sarawak’s strong culture of inclusivity.
“This tradition reflects the high spirit of unity among the people of Sarawak and must be continued by future generations,” he said while greeting one of the village headmen’s families.
The village leaders expressed their gratitude for his continued commitment to the well-being of the residents.
They acknowledged his efforts in ensuring that the community’s needs are addressed and that development initiatives remain people-centred.
Also present during the visit were Norman Ngumbang, Pemancha of the Iban Community in Betong District, Penghulu Stanley Ejau Erin, Penghulu Sebastian Kadam Randy, and Councillor Abdul Rahim Jaini.
Their attendance underscored the collaborative spirit between leaders of different communities in Betong.
The visit not only strengthened ties between the leaders and the villagers but also reinforced the values of unity and mutual respect that underpin Sarawak’s multicultural society.
By continuing such traditions, leaders and residents alike contribute to a stronger, more cohesive community.
As Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations continue across Sarawak, the event in Kampung Melayu Betong serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural exchange and the role of caring leadership in fostering social harmony.
