Lee Kim Shin Praises Foochow Spirit as Key Force Driving Sarawak's Prosperity

(Miri, 1st) Sarawak Minister of Transport, Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, expressed that the indomitable, hardworking, and tenacious spirit of the Foochow people is not only the foundation for the growth of their associations but also a valuable asset to Sarawak’s diverse and harmonious society.
 He said this in his speech last night at the “35th Anniversary Celebration Dinner and Welcome Banquet” of the Miri Foochow Heliang Club, held at the banquet hall on the fourth floor of Mega Hotel, Miri.
Lee Kim Shin said he sincerely thanked the Miri Foochow Heliang Club for their kind invitation, giving him the opportunity to gather with everyone and jointly witness the glorious moment themed “Rongcheng Crane Shadow · Warming Hearts for 35 Years.”
He said tonight’s celebration marks not only the 35th anniversary of the club’s founding, but also the achievements of 35 years of dedicated efforts. Since its establishment in 1990, the Miri Foochow Heliang Club has always adhered to the principle of “serving senior members,” promoting a healthy and happy life for the elderly, and advocating the fine spirit of respecting and caring for the elderly. Such perseverance and contributions deserve everyone’s heartfelt admiration and praise.

Lee Kim Shin pointed out that when it comes to the Foochow people, everyone thinks of their resilience, industriousness, and pioneering spirit. Early Foochow ancestors traveled across the seas and settled in Sarawak, making a living by cultivating land and developing agriculture. Their diligence and integrity not only laid a solid foundation for Sarawak’s agricultural development but also achieved outstanding results in education, commerce, construction, and various industries, leaving behind a glorious legacy.
“To this day, the Foochow community continues to carry forward this spirit of striving, actively participating in social services and economic development, and has become an important force in promoting the prosperity of Sarawak. In business, education, culture, arts, or public affairs, Foochow folks have demonstrated exceptional leadership and cohesion.”
He stressed that the Sarawak government has always valued inclusiveness and unity in society. Just as the government champions the vision of ‘prosperity for all,’ every ethnic group and association is an essential partner in Sarawak’s advancement. Only through the cooperation of all will it be possible to build a prosperous, progressive, and high-income Sarawak that benefits everyone.
He said that seeing Foochow groups from various parts of Malaysia and Brunei gathered in Miri that evening demonstrated unity across regions, serving as a testament to cultural heritage and social harmony. He congratulated the Miri Foochow Heliang Club on the successful celebration of their 35th anniversary and expressed hope that the Club will continue to promote the spirit of respecting the elderly and loving the young, becoming a model for society.