MAKAN LAH: Leo strikes a gong to start the Makan Berambih dinner to mark Miri Melanau Association’s 50th anniversary, witnessed by Ahmad Lai (sixth right), Antonio (fifth right) and others.
MIRI: The spirit of 1Malaysia is manifested by the more than 30 ethnic groups in Sarawak, said Mukah MP Dato Sri Dr Muhammad Leo Michael Toyad.
“No matter what race or ethnic group you belong to, there is acceptance. Such tolerance and unity is a Malaysian reflection,” he said when officiating at a dinner ‘Makan Berambih’ to commemorate Miri Melanau Association’s 50th anniversary at the association’s premises last Sunday.
Leo who is also president of Federation of Sarawak Melanau Associations said the people could take pride in the unity and solidarity behind the political leadership.
He called on the minority race not to hinder global development but strive to succeed and be on par with other communities by keeping abreast with development.
The Melanau community should adopt visionary thinking and look for opportunities to uplift themselves, while enhancing national unity and harmony in the country. He wanted them to remain united.
Touching on the association, he wanted the members to use the association as a platform to enhance development of the community including education and preservation of their cultural heritage.
With that they can progress alongside other communities and compete in the international arena.
He announced a RM30,000 Minor Rural Project (MRP) grant for the association.
Among those present were Sibuti MP Ahmad Lai Bujang, Miri Resident Antonio Kahti Galis, Miri deputy mayor Mohd Chee Kadir and Miri Melanau Association president Alexander Maiyor.