Veterans Showcase Crafts and Celebrate Harvest Festival, Demonstrating Resilience and Creative Value

(Miri, 3rd) In conjunction with the Gawai Dayak Festival, the Malaysian Veterans Association Miri Branch (PVATM) is hosting an "Art and Craft Exhibition" at the Berasau Camp Club from May 3rd to 11th, daily from 8 am to 7 pm. The grand opening ceremony was held today, showcasing the spirit of veterans who remain undeterred after retirement.

The originally scheduled chief guest, Sarawak Minister of Transport Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, was unable to attend due to official duties. He sent Miri City Councillor Dato Lau Sie Nguong as a representative to deliver the speech. He stated that the exhibited handicrafts not only demonstrate the talents and craftsmanship of the veterans but also highlight their active spirit in serving society and promoting the community economy even after retirement.

"This is not just an art display platform but a mirror reflecting the resilience, independence, and creativity of veterans. After taking off their uniforms, they continue to contribute to society in another way."

He highly praised the efforts of the Miri Veterans Association in supporting members and promoting the community economy, considering it aligns with the Sarawak government's direction on community entrepreneurship and silver economy development.

He also called for more government units and private enterprises to collaborate with PVATM to jointly establish a more comprehensive support system for veterans, covering key areas such as welfare protection, skills training, and product promotion.

"The government has always valued the welfare of veterans and will continue to promote related plans to enhance their quality of life."

On behalf of the minister, he congratulated the organizers and hoped the exhibition would encourage more veterans to venture into the creative economy and live out a second career.

Guests attending the ceremony included representatives of the Sarawak Deputy Minister of Tourism Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew, Miri City Councillor Lisa Yu Ley Ha, and representatives of Miri Mayor YB Adam Yii Siew Sang, Miri City Councillor Sean Huang , among others.