Unity and Stability Are Sarawak’s Most Valuable Assets — ‘Fortune Horse Welcomes Spring’ Gathers All Ethnic Groups

(Miri, 8th) Sarawak Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin stated that Sarawak’s ability to maintain long-term prosperity and stability lies in the unity, mutual trust, respect, and tolerance among its various ethnic groups, which also constitutes Sarawak’s most valuable and competitive social asset.

He made these remarks last night in his speech at the “2026 Year of the Fire Horse Fortune Horse Welcomes Spring Gathering” organized by the Sarawak Chinese Association, held at the 5th floor ballroom of Imperial Hotel Miri. The event brought together leaders and representatives from 20 local ethnic associations in Miri, creating a warm and lively atmosphere as everyone celebrated Lunar New Year together.

Lee Kim Shin pointed out that since its establishment, the Sarawak Chinese Association has not only been committed to preserving and promoting Chinese culture, but has also shouldered the important mission of fostering ethnic exchanges, strengthening social cohesion, and maintaining social harmony in a pluralistic society.

He also said that over the years, the Chinese Association has adhered to an open and inclusive spirit, maintaining close cooperation with other ethnic associations and actively building communication platforms to allow different cultures to coexist and flourish with mutual respect.

He expressed that this year’s Lunar New Year is particularly meaningful, as it coincides with the Ramadan fasting month, followed by Hari Raya, and soon after, the Gawai Festival, fully demonstrating Sarawak’s unique culture of “all ethnic groups celebrating festivals together.” In Sarawak, people do not only celebrate their own festivals, but rather participate in and offer well-wishes to each other, sharing the joy of festivities together.

He said that this cross-ethnic festive atmosphere is not to be taken for granted; instead, it is the result of long-term accumulated mutual respect, tolerance, and cherishing of each other, which must be treasured and passed down from generation to generation. 

Lee Kim Shin emphasized that precisely because of social harmony and political stability, Sarawak can focus its efforts on driving economic development and improving livelihoods, continuing to attract the confidence of domestic and international investors.

He pointed out that as one of the key cities in Sarawak, Miri’s development also requires a united and stable social environment, which serves as a solid foundation for promoting infrastructure, economic transformation, and community advancement.

He called on the people to be united, support local development plans, actively participate in community affairs, and contribute in their respective roles; only when the government, associations, and the people work hand in hand can Miri become a more prosperous, progressive, and livable city, allowing the fruits of development to benefit all citizens.

Lee Kim Shin also mentioned that in recent years, many people from Peninsular Malaysia have expressed admiration and longing for Sarawak’s social atmosphere and development prospects, with some even hoping to relocate to Sarawak to further their careers. This further affirms that unity and stability are Sarawak's most attractive strengths.

He pointed out that the Year of the Fire Horse represents progress, perseverance, and a sense of responsibility. “Fortune Horse Welcomes Spring” not only conveys auspiciousness, but also serves as a reminder for society to progress through unity and develop through stability, in order to forge a brighter future for both Sarawak and Miri.

He thanked the Sarawak Chinese Association and all ethnic associations for their efforts over the years in promoting social unity and harmony. He also called on all sectors to take “Fortune Horse Welcomes Spring” as a new starting point, to continue working hand-in-hand and in solidarity, and to jointly build an even more united, stable, prosperous, and hopeful Sarawak and Miri.