Awang Tengah: Cultural Diversity Fosters Unity and Development – Borneo Carnival Showcases Sarawak’s Charm

(Miri, 10th) — Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah pointed out that Sarawak is home to over 30 ethnic groups that have long lived together in harmony. Multiculturalism is not only a unique identity of the state but also an important driving force for unity, tourism, and economic development.

He said that events such as the “Borneo Cultural Carnival 4.0” not only bring together different communities for food and cultural exchange, but also serve as important platforms to strengthen social unity, pass on cultural heritage, and promote the local economy.

He made these remarks in a speech at the opening ceremony of the “Borneo Cultural Carnival 4.0: ‘The Voice of the Drum’” held last night at the outdoor car park of the Boulevard Shopping Complex and organized by the Miri Kedayan Association. As Awang Tengah could not attend as the guest of honor, his speech was read out by Sarawak Deputy Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Lambir assemblyman Datuk Len Talif Salleh.

Awang Tengah stated that Sarawak’s harmony is no accident, but is built on mutual respect, understanding, and tolerance—and must be continuously upheld to ensure the state’s continued prosperity and development in the future.

He said that culture is more than just stage performance or traditional attire; it also encompasses lifestyles, languages, traditional cuisine, music, dance, handicrafts, and family values, all of which are important assets that must be passed down through generations.

The “Borneo Cultural Carnival 4.0” demonstrates how culture, arts, and cuisine can serve as bridges that connect communities, enabling mutual learning and appreciation of each other’s cultures, and embodying the true spirit of unity.

He pointed out that the theme “The Voice of the Drum” symbolizes unity and harmony, just as different drum rhythms come together to create a beautiful melody—reflecting how Sarawak’s diverse society blends its differences into a unique and harmonious social landscape.

He also praised the Miri Kedayan Association for its long-time commitment to promoting ethnic culture, and highlighted the rich cultural heritage of the Kedayan community—including traditional foods such as kelupis, wajid, traditional pastries, as well as the gambus instrument, drum music, traditional dances, handicrafts such as terindak hats and woven goods, all of which are precious cultural assets that should continue to be promoted and passed down.

Awang Tengah stated that such cultural events also have a positive impact on local tourism and the economy—while attracting tourists, they also offer local SMEs, artisans, and cultural practitioners opportunities to showcase their talents and expand their markets.

He said cultural tourism has great potential and can serve as an important engine of economic growth, helping to enhance Miri’s competitiveness as a tourist destination.

He hopes that the “Borneo Cultural Carnival” can continue to expand in scale and develop into an internationally recognized annual event, attracting even more participation from community organizations, NGOs, private businesses, and government agencies, to jointly build Sarawak’s representative cultural tourism brand.

He pointed out that in line with the post-COVID 2030 Development Strategy (PCDS 2030), the Sarawak government is committed to building an inclusive and sustainable high-income economy, with tourism, culture, and creative industries serving as important drivers.

He emphasized that events like this carnival not only aid in cultural heritage preservation, but also promote job opportunities and the development of SMEs, further enhancing Miri’s overall competitiveness.