ICC Chinese New Year do reflects Sarawak’s liberal stance

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(From fifth left) Antonio, Sabariah and other guests toss ‘Yee Sang’ at the gathering.

(From fifth left) Antonio, Sabariah and other guests toss ‘Yee Sang’ at the gathering.

MIRI: The Islamic Information Centre (ICC) Chinese New Year celebration, the first ever held here yesterday, is a true reflection of Sarawak’s religious tolerance and strong racial unity.

Its chief executive officer Zabariah Matali said the gathering was meant to enhance mutual understanding and appreciation of each other’s faith, culture and traditions.

“It is also part of our programmes to create better understanding and appreciation of Islam among the multi-ethnic and multi-religious people of Sarawak,” she said.

Resident Antonio Kahti Galis, who was also present, commended the ICC for initiating the event, which he believed could enhance harmony among the multi-racial and multi-religious society here.

“This gathering which was first held in 2009 is a good platform to foster rapport and understanding among the multi-religious society.

“It also reminds us of the needs to equip ourselves with good values and skills to counter negative influences from outside,” he said.

The gathering was held in collaboration with Sarawak Chinese Association Miri, Miri Malay Charitable Trust Board and Sarawak Federation of Women’s Institutes Miri

About 200 representatives of Chinese-based organisations, faith-based organisations and SFWI attended the gathering held at the institute’s premises in Krokop.

SFWI advisor Datuk Ursula Goh, president of Sarawak Chinese Association Miri Ting Pang Soon and chairman of Miri Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industries Lee Khoi Yun were among those present.

Apart from being served with food and drinks, the guests were also entertained with lion dance performances.