KUCHING – Sarawak’s reputation as a beacon of racial and religious harmony was reaffirmed during the state-level celebration of Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (Maulidur Rasul) held at Dataran Merdeka on Saturday.
The event, which marked the 1447 Hijri observance, drew participation from various communities and religious groups, reflecting the state’s longstanding commitment to inclusivity.
Addressing the crowd, Tun Pehin Sri Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, Sarawak’s Yang di-Pertua Negeri, emphasized that the strength of Sarawak lies in its ability to foster unity among its diverse population. He noted that moderation, mutual respect, and openness have become the pillars of the state’s social fabric.
“Moderation, mutual respect, and an open mind have become the foundation of Sarawak’s unity. Sarawak is built on a spirit of consensus among different religions and races. There are no major racist issues here, all religious activities are celebrated together, and Sarawak’s leadership has always been inclusive,” Sarawak’s Yang di-Pertua Negeri stated.
The Governor also referenced the Charter of Medina, a historic document from the time of Prophet Muhammad, as a model for governance rooted in tolerance, security, and pluralism.
He highlighted how the charter recognized the rights of various tribes and faiths, promoting peaceful coexistence under a unified civic identity.
The rally and procession were part of a broader national effort to promote interfaith understanding and celebrate Islamic values of compassion and unity.
Sarawak’s approach to religious governance, including support for non-Muslim places of worship through agencies like UNIFOR, has been praised as a model for other Malaysian states.
Tun Pehin Sri Wan Junaidi urged Sarawakians to continue nurturing this spirit of togetherness, stressing that unity is essential for maintaining peace and driving progress.
His remarks echoed sentiments shared by other state leaders in recent months, who have lauded Sarawak’s inclusive policies and community-driven initiatives as key to its stability.
