KUCHING: Sarawak’s political stability has been a force to keep the nation on a steady keel.
In stating this, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the state’s strength can be seen through the appointment of a Deputy Prime Minister from Sarawak who looked after the interest of the country as a whole.
“Many people say Sarawak only speaks for Sarawak’s rights, politically, some say Sarawak speaks only for itself, but I respond that if Sarawak is strong, then Malaysia is strong, and if Sarawak is not strong, Malaysia is not strong.
“Even now, we continue to help each other; that’s why they (federal government) appointed a Sarawakian as Deputy Prime Minister because of our strength in contributing to Malaysia’s stable government, fostering unity among the people, and collaborating to build the nation,” he said.
He said this during the Hopoh Se-Malaysia Festival l here on today (April 28) evening.
Reflecting on Sarawak’s cultural diversity, Abang Johari emphasised on the spirit of Sarawak unity that transcended ethnic and religious boundaries, which was evident in the night’s performances that included participation of Iban and Malay youths.
“That is the culture that we have irrespective of ethnic background, irrespective of our religious faith – we mix together, and that is Sarawak,” he said.
Abang Johari also spoke of the industriousness of the Hakka Hopo community that had always placed importance on education and business success and their readiness to cooperate with people of other races.
At the event, he welcomed visitors from across Malaysia, as well as representatives from Singapore and Brunei and described the festival as a portrayal of the cohesiveness within the Hopoh community.
Earlier, Sarawak Hopoh Association president Datuk Dr Chai Khin Chung said the annual festival is an important event in the calendar of all Hopoh people throughout Malaysia.
“As the host for this festival, the Sarawak Hopoh Association is proud to contribute to the unity and preservation of Hopoh culture within the context of Malaysia’s multicultural society.
“The festival can strengthen the relationship among association members from all over Malaysia and neighbouring countries,” he said.
Throughout the festival, various activities were implemented, including the Malaysia Hopoh Star National Singing Competition, traditional food, traditional Hopoh song performances, golf competitions and launching of books.
