SIBU: Temenggong Datuk Vincent Lau Lee Ming has stressed the importance of understanding and tolerance for different cultures within Malaysia’s diverse multi-ethnic and cultural landscape.
Speaking at the Sarawak Pan-Chen Lau Clan Association (SPCLCA) Chinese New Year 2024 celebration dinner on Thursday (Feb 15), the Sibu Chinese paramount leader urged people not to react with anger or criticism due to cultural differences but to seek understanding first.
He pointed out the need for thorough understanding and careful verification before making remarks about other cultures, quoting the saying, “Think twice before speaking, and think twice before acting.”
As the honorary president of SPCLCA, Lau hoped that the Year of the Dragon would bring an end to political turmoil and economic challenges, urging the country’s diverse ethnic groups to uphold the spirit of mutual respect and tolerance for national prosperity and development.
“The Year of the Dragon is a year full of hope and opportunities. We look forward to the new year when the Lau Clan Guild will fly like ‘a dragon across the sky and display its dragon plans’,” he remarked.
He acknowledged the achievements of the past year, thanking the clan members for their support and cooperation in the guild’s affairs and activities.
SPCLCA president Albert Lau Pek Kii echoed the sentiment, emphasising the welfare of its members as a top priority for the clan association.
He commended the mature organisation and the dedication of committee members to the benefit of all members.
Albert encouraged a positive outlook on life, highlighting influential figures within the Lau family, including Vincent Lau and Alice Lau Kiong Yieng, the Dewan Rakyat Deputy Speaker.
Reflecting on Malaysia’s history, Albert noted the significance of having the first Chinese-born deputy speaker in the Dewan Rakyat after over 60 years, calling it a source of pride for the Chinese and an honour to the Lau Clan family.
Among those present at the celebration were Alice, SPCLCA chairman Penghulu Lau Hieng Wuong, and organising chairman Cr Kevin Lau Kor Jie.
