SARIKEI – Chinese New Year celebrations in Sarikei have once again proven to be more than just festive gatherings, serving as a platform for community leaders to engage directly with residents and listen to their concerns.
Deputy Minister of Plantations and Commodities and Sarikei Member of Parliament Dato’ Sri Huang Tiong Sii highlighted that the tradition of house-to-house visits during the festive season not only strengthens social ties but also provides an effective channel to understand the needs of the people.
He explained that the warm and harmonious atmosphere of the celebrations creates opportunities for open dialogue, allowing community members to share their views directly with elected representatives.
“Programmes like this not only fuel the spirit of the festival but also provide an opportunity for me to socialise and listen to the people’s grievances, understand their challenges and strengthen the relationship between leaders and the community,” he said.
Huang, who also serves as Repok State Assemblyman (ADUN), stressed that unity among Sarawak’s multi-racial community is a vital foundation for social stability and continued development in the Sarikei constituency.
He added that festive occasions such as Chinese New Year embody the values of inclusivity and mutual respect, which are essential for progress.
He further acknowledged the important role played by grassroots leaders, including tribal chiefs, headmen, and community representatives, in ensuring smooth delivery of government services and safeguarding the welfare of the people. Their involvement, he said, helps bridge communication between the government and the community.
During his visits, Huang spent time interacting with residents, exchanging greetings, and gathering feedback on current issues affecting the local population.
The direct engagement allowed him to better understand the challenges faced by the community, ranging from infrastructure needs to social welfare concerns.
Among those who welcomed him were Penghulu Ley Kok Lun, Penghulu Yeu Chii Tung, and Wong Hua Ting, reflecting the strong support from local leaders for the initiative.
Chinese New Year celebrations in Sarikei continue to serve as a reminder of the importance of cultural traditions in fostering unity, while also acting as a medium for leaders to remain connected to the voices of the people.
The practice of combining festive joy with meaningful dialogue underscores Sarawak’s commitment to building a resilient and inclusive society.
