LET IT BEGIN: Taib beats the ‘gong’ to launch Sarawak Culture Symposium 2013. Also seen from left are Jabu, Fatimah and Ragad. — Photo by Jeffery Mostapa
Chief Minister assures minority ethnic groups of respect, equal opportunities
KUCHING: The minorities in Sarawak will never be neglected or oppressed as the government respects all races, said Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud.
“The minorities tend to feel a little bit worried (from time to time), but it is fortunate that in Sarawak we respect one another, and this helped to bring down social tension,” he said at the launching of Sarawak Culture Symposium 2013 here yesterday.
Citing the Penans as an example, the chief minister said even though their population numbered less than 5,000, some of them had done well in various fields.
“Imagine, if they were not in Sarawak they could be neglected, if not oppressed.
“But in Sarawak they can work hard to progress and achieve social advancement. Some Penans have gone to universities, excelled in certain professions, and even become millionaires. One of them is Datuk Hasan Sui.”
The Bidayuh and Orang Ulu communities, he added, were also able to compete successfully with the majority.
“The successful integration of various races is something that we all should take pride in,” he said, and assured that no race would be neglected under the Barisan Nasional (BN) government.
Taib said the state had recorded 51 per cent urbanisation thus far, and this social process would continue to drive competition upwards.
FASCINATING: Local dancers perform at the launch of Sarawak Culture Symposium 2013. — Photo by Jeffery Mostapa
The process of urbanisation would demand people, particularly the young, to be more competitive and to excel in a new environment.
“This is why we have been preparing our children to be more competitive through education. They need to have the qualifications to go forward and cope with challenges.”
Earlier, Minister of Welfare, Women and Family Development Datuk Fatimah Abdullah said the government wanted community leaders to help promote unique local cultures.
“They are the grassroots leaders who can play a pivotal role in preserving traditions and cultures.”
Among those present at the symposium themed ‘Harmonious Sarawak, Enjoying Prosperity’ were Taib’s wife Puan Sri Ragad Kurdi Taib, Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Alfred Jabu Numpang and State Secretary Tan Sri Datuk Amar Morshidi Abdul Ghani.