KUCHING: The Federation of Chinese Associations of Sarawak has managed to raise RM107,500 through its donation campaign for the China government to help combat the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) epidemic.
Its president Datuk Richard Wee handed over the first batch of the donation to China’s Deputy Consul-General in Kuching Zhang Yang who received it on behalf of China’s Consul-General of China in Kuching Cheng Guangzhong.
The handing over ceremony was held during the Federation of Chinese Associations of Kuching, Samarahan and Serian Division’s 41st anniversary and Chinese New Year dinner at Imperial Hotel on Sunday evening.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg was present at the event.
Wee, in his speech, said that the Chinese community in Sarawak was trying its best to assist China in facing the Covid-19.
“This virus is no longer a Wuhan problem, nor it is a China problem. It has become a problem that affects all humanity,” he said.
He also appealed to Sarawakians to donate voluntarily to help those affected by the virus.
“So tonight, we will be giving the first batch of the donation to express our concern and to show that we care,” he said.
Meanwhile, Cheng Guangzhong, whose text of speech was read by Zhang Yang, said the Covid-19 was a fight between virus and humanity.
“Virus knows no borders and no difference among races. Thus, ever since the beginning of the outbreak, the Chinese government has exhausted all possible means, including locking down Wuhan, a major city with more than 11 million population, and calling off all outbound Chinese tourist groups,” he said.
Cheng said China wanted to express its gratitude for the support from the world including Sarawak and Malaysia.
“The China Consulate has received heartwarming encouragement and tremendous support from Sarawak.
“Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian was the first to come to our consulate office, together with Datuk Richard Wee, to donate surgical gloves and some fund to China,” he revealed.
Cheng said he was also touched when Kuching South City Council (MBKS) mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng encouraged his council members to contribute their monthly allowances to help China.
“Many Chinese associations and local communities showed their support to China in the fight against this epidemic. Every word of support and every form of assistance is greatly appreciated in this critical time.
“This demonstrates the unwavering friendship between China and Malaysia,” he said.
Cheng believed after the epidemic; China would continue to be even stronger than before.
“I’m confident that through our joint efforts, both China and Sarawak will have a more prosperous and bright future,” he said.
