Fadillah: Unity, stability key to Sarawak’s growth
BINTULU (Dec 15): Sarawak’s uniqueness and strength stem from its diverse cultures and beliefs, which foster unity and stability, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.
“I would like to remind everyone that unity is the cornerstone of Sarawak’s stability, embodied in the spirit of ‘Segulai Sejalai’, which means Moving Forward Together,” he said when officiating at the closing ceremony of the Apau Koyan Cultural Festival 2024 in Sungai Asap, Belaga which was broadcast live on the Heart of Borneo Culture Facebook page last night.
Fadillah emphasised that everyone must play a crucial role in strengthening unity to build both Sarawak and Malaysia. he noted that as Malaysia’s economy strengthens, investors will eagerly seek to invest, creating opportunities for Sarawak to grow and prosper as well.
“We don’t need to go far, as we can see the situation in Peninsular Malaysia, where extreme political differences have led to the breakdown of inter-religion and race relationships.
“With four prime ministers, the government has struggled to focus on national management, impacting the economic position,” he said.
Fadillah stressed the importance of a stable Unity Government, as political instability at the national level will have adverse effects on Sarawak in terms of attracting foreign investors.
He said that over the past two years under the Unity Government, economic recovery has begun, with Gross Domestic Product growth exceeding five per cent. “Sarawak’s green energy initiatives have attracted global attention, making it the most politically stable state in the country,” he said.
Fadilah called for collective efforts to maintain stability and contribute to national governance. Regarding the event, he said it is one of the significant events that fosters interaction and strengthens relationships.
He said such events become an important platform for sharing ideas, experiences and knowledge, especially among the younger generation. “The younger generation can continue the unique culture of Sarawak despite the modern technological era and changing lifestyles.
“Interaction is often dominated by social media, but festivals like this foster closer interactions and stronger relationships. “They allow for the sharing of ideas and experiences and provide information to understand the future world from a digital context,” he said.
He stressed that the community, especially the younger generation, must continually be equipped with knowledge and skills. “A state may progress, but its people will be left behind if they do not adequately enhance their knowledge and skills across various fields,” he said.
Fadillah also congratulated the 18 Village Security and Development Committees (JKKKs) in Belaga District for being approved for the ‘Sejati Madani Fund’, amounting to a total of RM3.78 million.
Also present were Deputy Minister of Digital and Hulu Rajang MP Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong, Deputy Minister of Utility and Telecommunication and Belaga assemblyman Datuk Liwan Lagang, Murum assemblyman Kennedy Chukpai Ugon and Premier’s political secretary Senator Michael Mujah Lihan.
-Agency
