MUKAH: Sarawak, with its diverse ethnicities and religions, offers its people the opportunity to celebrate a variety of festivals together.
Tellian Assemblyman, Royston Valentine stated that throughout the year, various celebrations are observed, one of which is from the Chinese community.
“We also have the opportunity to celebrate the Lantern Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival, and others besides Chinese New Year, demonstrating the unique festivals of the Chinese community, which we also have the chance to celebrate together,” he said.
He said this during the 2024 Torch Relay organised by the Mukah Division Federation of Chinese Association in conjunction with the 39th National Chinese Cultural Festival held at Kingwood Resort Mukah on Saturday.
Royston explained that by celebrating such festivals together, the unity spirit can be strengthened to ensure peace and harmony are always maintained.
Additionally, he emphasised that he would continue to support the Chinese community just as they support the programmes implemented by the government.
Meanwhile, Chairman of the Organising Committee, Penghulu Henry Lee Liong Ing said this cultural festival aims to promote and preserve the Chinese community’s culture.
“Every edition of the festival is a cultural celebration and an opportunity to showcase the beauty of Chinese culture to the world.
“As the fourth station of this Torch Relay, Mukah shows that we have a deep cultural heritage and rich history,” he said.
Therefore, he also hopes that through such programmes, cultural heritage can be protected and passed on, with more active participation in cultural exchanges.
Meanwhile. the event also witnessed the handover of the torch to the Kapit division as the fifth station, with the programme expected to conclude in Kuching this September 15.
Earlier in the morning, 17 contingents, with an estimated 500 participants, participated in the torch relay.
The three-kilometre relay was also participated by Royston and several distinguished guests from other divisions. -UKASnews
