Sarawakians applaud #AnakAnakMalaysia initiative, says no gap between races in state

Maureen: Mutual respect necessary to maintain racial harmony.

KUCHING: The #AnakAnakMalay­sia campaign is resonating strongly among Sarawakians where “unity in diversity” is second nature to them.

Giving the thumbs-up to the campaign, clerk Kelly Hollen Tom @ Michael said it brought Malaysians of all races together “just like Sarawakians who have been living together in harmony”.

“This initiative is something that can contribute towards racial unity and is very much relevant in our multi-racial society,” said the 24-year-old Bidayuh.

“It will encourage us to learn and respect one another’s culture and religion.”

Admiring the #AnakAnakMalaysia wristband, Kelly said it was important to prevent any misunderstan­ding among people of different races, especially in the wake of various controversial issues today.

She said that major celebrations such as the National Day were opportunities to promote unity among Malaysians.

“On such occasions, we can bring everyone together and wear one another’s traditional costumes.

“People in Peninsular Malaysia may not know about the different races we have here in Sarawak.

“They can now learn about our cultures and at the same time, we can learn about theirs,” she said.

Kelly said the campaign could help instil a sense of belonging, besides strengthening co-operation among Malaysians.

Maureen Giweng, who is of mixed Iban and Bidayuh parentage, said mutual respect was necessary to maintain racial harmony.

“In Sarawak, there are many different ethnic groups. We need to maintain our unity so that there will be no racial disputes,” she said.

The administrative assistant said the #AnakAnakMalaysia initiative would contribute positively towards national integration.

“It reminds us that we are all Malaysians and that unity is important,” said the 23-year-old.

Student Syafiqah Mohd Ahmadi, 22, described the campaign as something positive which should be continued and expanded.

“Good racial ties can be improved with more of such activities.

“In Sarawak, there is no gap between different races and we must preserve this value.”