KUCHING: Sarawak’s strong foundation of tolerance, mutual understanding and respect across all races serves as a model for other Malaysian states, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.
He noted that Sarawak’s unity is reflected in its people celebrating each other’s festivals, which strengthens community bonds.
“The strong unity among us means that we celebrate each other’s festivities together. And this brings us closer to one another, especially in the context of Deepavali, a festival of lights.
“Regardless of our size in terms of numbers, we are all Sarawakians. We are united in all situations, and each of us plays a significant role in the development of our state and country. This unity is what we should celebrate together,” he said during a Deepavali dinner held at Indian Association Kuching (IAK) Hall here on Saturday.
During the event, the Indian Association Kuching proposed making Deepavali a public holiday in Sarawak, to which Fadillah responded by pledging to bring the request to the federal government.
The Kuching Indian Association, founded in 1946, represents a vibrant Indian community of nearly 4,000 residents who live harmoniously alongside various other ethnic groups in Kuching.
To support the association’s activities, Fadillah presented a RM20,000 allocation for the association.
He also presented the Distinguished Service Award to former association presidents Komurasamy Tantoney) and Anthony Ramanair.
Others present at the event included current president of the association Athamanthan Vengidasalam, Kuching Indian Community head Lucy Lingam, and Kuching Hindu Temple Association representative V. Sahundararaju.
