Emulate MBKS, Wong tells local councils

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KUCHING: Minister of Local Government and Community Development Dato Sri Wong Soon Koh wants all local councils to emulate Kuching South City Council (MBKS) in promoting community spirit via festive gatherings.

Chan (right) presents a memento to Wong. With them are (from left) Abang Affandi and Nansian. — Photo by Kong Jun Liung

Speaking at the MBKS Ramah Tamah Aidilfitri with Community 2014 here yesterday, he lauded MBKS for playing an exemplary role in nurturing the spirit of togetherness in the city.

“I understand this Ramah Tamah is an annual event of MBKS to bring together not just our Muslim friends but also friends of other races, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and officers from government agencies.

“There are 23 other local councils under my ministry, and I hope they will do something similar to what MBKS is doing to promote the community spirit, particularly during festive seasons.”

Wong, who is also Second Finance Minister, said he believed all Sarawakians were aware they had something very unique, so much so that they would all tag along during festivals.

“Be it Hari Raya Aidifiltri, Hari Gawai, Chinese New Year, or Christmas, all of us gather together to celebrate these occasions, sharing this community spirit irrespective of racial and cultural backgrounds.

“I think this is something unique that we can show to the world how we have been able to maintain peace and harmony.”

Present were Assistant Minister for Community Services Datuk Peter Nansian Ngusie, China’s deputy consul general in Kuching Liu Dongyuan, MBKS mayor Dato James Chan, deputy mayor Abang Affandi Abang Annuar, MBKS secretary John Lee, Temenggong Lu Kim Yong, and representatives from various non-governmental organisations.