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THE enduring spirit of unity in Malaysia’s multiracial society must remain a pillar of national strength, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof in a message marking the Gawai Dayak celebration in Sarawak.
In a post on his official Facebook page, Fadillah reflected on Malaysia’s unique harmony, where citizens of different backgrounds live peacefully and celebrate one another’s cultural and religious festivities.
“Let us always appreciate and be grateful for the peace and unity we have long enjoyed. Celebrate Gawai with joy, through traditional customs and the spirit of visiting one another,” he said.
Fadillah, who is also the Member of Parliament for Petra Jaya, added that Sarawak — the country’s most ethnically diverse state — remains a living example of how multiculturalism and mutual respect can thrive.
“Gawai Dayak, as a symbol of unity and Dayak identity, reflects the richness of Malaysia’s cultural diversity — where people of various races, religions, and backgrounds live together in peace,” he said.
Gawai Dayak, observed annually on 1 and 2 June, marks the end of the harvest season and is a time of thanksgiving for the Dayak people.
Meanwhile, Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to improving the socio-economic wellbeing of the Dayak community. This includes the introduction of free tertiary education and major infrastructure upgrades under the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030).
“The Sarawak Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES) is expected to cost the state RM300 million in its first year of implementation next year, benefitting around 10,000 students at four state-owned universities,” said Abang Johari in his Gawai message.
“I believe this initiative will open doors for many Sarawakian youths, especially those from low-income families and rural areas, to pursue degree-level studies in selected fields.”
The FTES programme will cover full tuition fees and provide an annual living allowance of RM15,000 for students from households earning RM1,500 or less.
Abang Johari also highlighted Sarawak’s strengthened fiscal position, noting that state revenue has grown to RM15 billion in 2024 — more than double its RM6 billion level eight years ago. He said this financial capability is enabling Sarawak to accelerate rural connectivity through projects such as bridges, roads and the transformation of old logging routes.
“We are reviewing a proposal to convert 5,000 kilometres of decommissioned logging roads into public roads. If implemented, this plan would greatly improve rural connectivity with a more structured road system,” he said.
The Premier concluded by reaffirming the GPS-led state government's focus on uplifting all Sarawakians, particularly those in remote communities, through inclusive development and strategic long-term planning. - June 1, 2025