SARIKEI – Traditional celebrations such as Chinese New Year continue to play a vital role in strengthening community ties and preserving cultural heritage in Sarawak.
Dato Sri Huang Tiong Sii, Deputy Minister of Plantations and Commodities and Member of Parliament for Sarikei, emphasised the importance of safeguarding cultural practices, including the lion dance, to ensure that future generations inherit the community’s identity.
“A festival like this is not just an annual event but a symbol of unity. We celebrate it together, respect each other’s religious freedom and continue to strengthen community harmony,” he said during the 2026 Chinese New Year Celebration Ceremony organised by the Kwong Wai Siew Sarikei Association at the Sarikei Central Hall on Friday.
Huang, who also serves as the Repok assemblyman, highlighted the government’s commitment to maintaining racial harmony and supporting multi-stream education as a means of reinforcing national unity.
He noted that development projects are carried out inclusively, benefiting all communities regardless of race. These include improvements to schools, urban and rural infrastructure, longhouses, roads and basic facilities aimed at raising living standards.
During the ceremony, Huang announced an allocation of RM30,000 to the Kwong Wai Siew Sarikei Association to support its activities and management. The funding reflects the government’s recognition of the association’s role in promoting cultural traditions and fostering community spirit.
The event brought together community leaders and residents, reinforcing the message of unity through shared celebration. Among those present were Association Chairman Penghulu Ley Kok Lun, Pemanca Chan Phan Chan, and Penghulu Huang Tiong Kang, who joined in welcoming guests and supporting the festivities.
Chinese New Year celebrations in Sarikei, as in other parts of Sarawak, have long been regarded as more than cultural observances. They serve as platforms for strengthening relationships across diverse communities, showcasing Sarawak’s unique ability to embrace multiculturalism while preserving traditions.
The lion dance, festive performances and communal gatherings at the Sarikei Central Hall reflected the enduring significance of cultural heritage in shaping community identity. Leaders believe that such traditions not only enrich Sarawak’s cultural landscape but also reinforce the values of respect, inclusivity and unity that underpin the state’s stability.
As Sarawak continues to develop, the preservation of cultural practices remains central to its vision of progress. The Sarikei celebration demonstrated how traditional festivals can bridge communities, strengthen harmony and ensure that cultural identity is passed on to future generations.
