KUCHING: The first-ever state level Chinese New Year celebration is expected to draw a crowd of over 5,000 guests, including members of the general public.
The celebration will be held on Feb 10 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) from 9 am to 3 pm.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian thanked Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg for the state government’s commitment to organise the open house on a large scale.
“Open house means no invitation needed; everyone is invited. This open house is crucial for our racial harmony and to uplift the Sarawak spirit. These are the very things that Sarawak needs for nation-building.
“This celebration is significant as it reflects our ethnic diversity in Sarawak while at the same time enhances the spirit of open house by visiting one another during festivities and ethnic celebrations,” he said during a press conference at Wisma Bapa here today.
“Dr Sim, who is also the event organising chairman, said the celebration will set an example for the nation.
“We want to showcase that this isn’t just a Sarawak open house. It’s where the Chinese community in Sarawak collaborates with the government for the celebration.
“Though it’s the first time, with everyone working together, I believe this will set a example for Malaysia,” he said.
The open house is expected to be graced by Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife Toh Puan Sri Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, along with Abang Johari and his wife Puan Sri Datuk Amar Juma’ani Tun Tuanku Bujang.
It will also be attended by federal and Sarawak Cabinet ministers, heads of departments, representatives of associations and houses of worship, and community leaders.
During the celebration, various programmes will be held, including the Yee Sang tossing ceremony, cultural performances, traditional dances and singing performances by the Agura Band from the Sarawak Arts Council.
Also present were at the press conference were Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Michael Tiang, Deputy State Secretary (Operations) Datuk Hii Chang Kee, Padawan Municipal Council chairman Tan Kai and Batu Kitang assemblyman Lo Khere Chiang.
