Federation of Chinese Associations of Kuching, Samarahan and Serian Division president Dato Richard Wee (left) presenting a memento to Abang Johari, witnessed by organising chairman Tay Boon Sin.
KUCHING: The Sarawak government will be giving a plot of land within the vicinity of Kuching to the Sarawak Federation of Chinese Associations for them to build their headquarters.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg who announced this said the request was made by some members of the federation some time last week during a function in Sarikei, and the state cabinet has agreed with it.
“The Sarawak Federation of Chinese Associations in Sarikei mentioned to me they needed a home. Meaning they need land to put up their headquarters.
“So tonight I want to announce, as an ‘Ang Pow’, we will give them a plot of land. Actually we (state cabinet) have agreed last week to give a piece of land somewhere in the central part of Kuching for the federation to build its building.
“I hope this ‘Ang Pow’ will give encouragement for us to work together in terms of economic development and for the community to assist one another, that will cement our ties to build a prosperous and happy Sarawak,” he said.
Abang Johari was speaking Federation of Chinese Associations of Kuching, Samarahan and Serian Division’s 41st Anniversary and Chinese New Year Dinner here last night.
Abang Johari also assured that the state government will continue to recognise the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) because the certificate is also recognised by many international and overseas universities like Singapore and even the United States (US).
“Education is important and we (state government) supports Chinese vernacular schools. At the end of the day when you pass your UEC you can enter good universities around the world.
“We recognise UEC because it is also an entry point, or recognised by universities in the US, China and Singapore. And if our students pass those universities, we (Sarawak) also gain.
“That is why the state government from Tok Nan (the late Pehin Sri Adenan Satem) and myself we continue to recognise UEC.
“Even a lot of Bumiputera and Malay students are also studying in Chinese vernacular schools. Because that is our culture,” he said.
Abang Johari also advised members of the Federation of Chinese Associations of Kuching, Samarahan and Serian Division to protect Sarawak and its culture of unity so that all Sarawakians regardless of their racial and religious background will continue to live in peace and harmony, and will drive Sarawak to greater heights.