Dr Sim (centre), Kok (third left), Chen (third right), Wee (second right) and others pose for a photocall with the lion dancers at the event.
KUCHING: Minister of Local Government and Housing Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian urges China to consider setting up university branches here to enhance the educational level here.
He said this was because China had very good relationship with Sarawak, which should be raised to the next level.
“With both of us together, we can have better development in education (sic),” he said at the Kuching Hing Ann Association Chinese New Year dinner here on Wednesday.
He added that Sarawak celebrated its festivities with everyone, regardless of race and religion, a trait unique to Sarawak, and hoped this culture would continue.
“Filial piety, loving and caring for the elderly is the backbone of Chinese culture and should continue to be inculcated amongst the younger generation.”
Dr Sim thanked the association for what it had it done in terms of development in culture, education, and economy.
“The Henghua community has contributed a lot to Sarawak. I hope they will continue to carry on their endeavour into the future and help make Sarawak better.”
At the event, 230 members aged 70 and above were presented with ‘angpow’ and other goodies. The oldest male (Teo Say Ho, 94) and oldest female member (Tan Ah Poh, 97) were given RM1,500 angpow each.
Deputy chairman of the association Kok Hin Kai, China Consul-General in Kuching Cheng Guangzhong, Temenggong Datuk Tan Joo Phoi, Committee Management of Kuching Chung Hua Middle School No.1, 3 and 4 chairman Dato Richard Wee and wife Datin Dona Drury Wee, and Bandar Kuching MP Dr Kelvin Yii were among those present.