MIRI: Mastering multiple languages, especially mandarin, is key to propelling the country towards modernity, says Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He described it as a missed opportunity for those who overlook learning Mandarin, considering China’s status as the world’s second-largest economic power.
“If you can speak English and Mandarin, that signifies your market potential. When you talk about business, they (the Chinese) are number one.
“A lot of natives, including the Malays, Iban and Orang Ulu, have started to learn mandarin and are studying in Chung Hua schools, so much so, we have a special allocation to be given to the Chinese school.
“Once you can command languages, then you are able to bring modernity to your country,” he said during the officiation of the 20th World Xu Clannish Gala Night held at Pullman Hotel here last night (Dec 16).
Additionally, Abang Johari interwove the cultural and historical tapestry of Islam and China, invoking insights from the teachings of Prophet Muhammad.
“In our religion, our Prophet urged us to seek knowledge, and he specifically mentioned China. This is a reminder that China has been a cradle of knowledge for centuries.
“China boasts a 5,000-year civilisation, and there’s much we can learn from their way of life – how they work, earn a living, and safeguard their rich culture.
The event earlier also witnessed the Miri Division Koh Yang Xu Clan Association making a notable contribution to Abang Johari as an honorary clan member in the form of a monument named ‘The Inheritance.’
This monument, featuring Abang Johari’s name inscribed in Chinese letters, was erected at the Miri City Fan Recreational Park here in conjunction with the 20th World Xu Clan Convention hosted in Miri from December 15 to 17.
The event was also graced by the Premier’s wife, Puan Sri Datuk Amar Juma’ani Tun Tuanku Haji Bujang; Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin; Deputy Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew; Miri mayor and Pujut assemblyman Adam Yii; Miri Division Koh Yang Xu Clan Association project director and permanent honorary chairman Datuk Hii King Chiong; Miri Division Koh Yang Xu Clan Association presiding president and chairman Khor Ooi Loong; former Penang Chief Minister Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon; and World Hsu Clannish Association president Hsui Sen Jong.
