During the Gawai Dayak celebration in Kuching on June 7, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced the adoption of the Iban phrase ‘Segulai Sejalai’ as the national unity slogan.
The phrase, which means ‘Together in Unity’, carries a deep meaning and resonates with the spirit of unity and cooperation.
“I am attracted to this ‘Segulai Sejalai’ phrase, so tonight, I want to make sure that it will be the national slogan.
“This means, wherever I go in future, when talking about unity and strengthening of cooperation, I will mention ‘Segulai Sejalai’,” he said.
The adoption of ‘Segulai Sejalai’ as the national slogan coincides with Sarawak’s 60th celebration of independence in Malaysia, says Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
He points out that the phrase emphasises the importance of unity among Sarawak’s diverse communities and aligns with the state’s vision for economic prosperity, social inclusivity and environmental sustainability in line with the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030.
Several leaders have expressed their thoughts and support for Anwar’s decision.
Federal Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri sees the slogan as complementing the current Unity Government.
“The usage of the phrase nationwide brings pride to the people of Sarawak. For me, using the slogan as the national unity slogan is one of the very good initiatives by our Prime Minister. ‘Segulai Sejalai’ symbolises unity within the community.”
Sarawak Minister for Youth, Sport and Entrepreneur Development, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah believes the adoption of the phrase is an honour and recognition of Sarawak’s longstanding practice of unity and tolerance.
“The slogan may have been adopted by the Prime Minister due to the unity that is prevalent in Sarawak.
“The meaning of ‘Segulai Sejalai’ is ‘Together in Unity’, which is aligned with the Prime Minister’s effort to unify the people of Malaysia.
“We know racial and religious sentiments have been exploited in politics, causing various issues to arise.
“In Sarawak, whether you are a Dayak, Malay or Chinese, we can still come together and practise tolerance.”
Sarawak Minister for Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development, Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom finds the phrase appropriate for Malaysia’s diverse society.
“The phrase reflects the unity among various races in Sarawak as well as the whole nation.
“I’m happy that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim acknowledged the Iban phrase, which we have been using as our tagline for the Gawai festival since the 80s.
“It’s also very appropriate for a diverse country like Malaysia, and it has been working well for Sarawak.”
