Friday May 10, 2013

GE13: Sarawakians urge unity and harmony

Calling for unity: Geralyn (left) and Linda Tait, 28, who work at the Borneo Highlands Resort, showing the 1Malaysia sign.

KUCHING: The people here, like their fellow Malaysians elsewhere, want peace and harmony to prevail with everyone coming together in unison regardless of their respective political leanings.

Sonia Luhong, 23, said unity was vital for a multi-cultural and multi-religious country.

“The most powerful way of showing unity is not through the speech of leaders but through the voices and action of the people,” said the Kayan graphic design student.

Gundah Usop, who works in the hospitality industry, hoped the strong ties among the nation's multiracial community would continue.

“What we have in Malaysia is very unique. All of us can come together over a cup of coffee or celebrate each other's festivities with much joy and togetherness,” said the 55-year-old of Iban descent.

The grandfather of three, who is married to Nyumbai Samin, a Bidayuh, said inter-marriages were very common in Sarawak.

“In the end, it's the character that matters, not race, not colour, not religion.”

Sarah Lasung, 27, who works at non-profit organisation Teach for Malaysia, said the country could not afford to have a future that was divided.

For 23-year-old Hertonnye Linggom, 23, political affiliation should not be a barrier to living in unity and harmony.

“Never look at the colour of our skin as we are all Malaysians.”

Geralyn Cheramee Munji said working at a resort provided her with the opportunity to interact with people of different ethnicity and nationality.

“It doesn't matter what ethnicity you are; let's all unite as Malaysians,” said the 23-year-old Iban.

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