SARIKEI: People of different races can fight for their rights, but it must never involve any element of racism.
Semop assemblyman Abdullah Saidol said it is not wrong for the Iban, Bidayuh, Melanau, Malay, Chinese, Kayan community to fight for their own rights, but it must not discriminate against other races.
“We are unlike those in Malaya; they only have three main races namely Malay, Chinese and Indian, but they are not united,” he said during the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) Flag Rally in Sarikei Civic Centre, yesterday.
Abdullah who is also the Assistant Minister in the Chief Minister’s Department (Corporate Affairs), said Sarawak was unique and people were able to live together despite having more than 30 ethnic groups.
“Therefore, it is very important for us to preserve this unity, not for us, but for our future generations,” he pointed out.
He said that was why GPS comprising the four component parties who are of multi-racial society was seen as the best platform to further protect the state’s unity.
“That is why it is very important for the people to continue to work with GPS so that the leaders could maintain the peace and harmony in Sarawak.”
Meanwhile, Kuala Rajang assemblyman Datuk Len Talif Salleh stated it was not wrong for those who said GPS was an old wine in a new bottle, as it means the wine still can be used.
“When everything is new it means a good start. And for that GPS as a new political entity is relevant and still able to continue in its political struggle. Like Prime Minister Tun Mahathir Mohamad, he said he wants a ‘Malaysia Baru’, but a 93-year old man rules it. Now, that is what you call an old wine in a old bottle,” he pointed out.
Talif who is also Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Assistant Minister, then said GPS has a new ship sailed by only Sarawakians, under its captain Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg who can bring Sarawak to a greater height.
Jemoreng assemblyman Datuk Murshid Dr.Juanda Jaya said people in Sarawak understand each other’s languages, cultures, and differences, which is why GPS could be formed.
“You think if Malayan-based party were to lead us? I don’t think we can be united,” he said.
He said therefore the unity and the rights of Sarawak must be fully safeguarded like how the hornbill is protected.
“Those who shoot the hornbill we will put them in jail. That also goes for those who try to disturb our rights, we fight back,” he said.
“Without Sarawakians to look after our state, who will? None, but only ourselves. That is we must not be bluffed by their sweet talks, because at the end of the day the thing they promised will become tasteless.”
Tanjung Manis MP Yusuf Abd Wahab said that GPS will never run away from its responsibilities but will continue to ensure greater development in Sarawak not only for the election, but in 20 to 50 years to come.
