Ting’s fifth-day CNY open house to strengthen interfaith unity
by Cindy Lai · Borneo Post OnlineMIRI (Feb 16): Sarawak Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts I Datuk Sebastian Ting has invited members of the public to attend his Chinese New Year (CNY) open house on Saturday, Feb 21, from 5pm to 9pm at the Miri Civic Centre.
Ting, who is also the Piasau assemblyman, said this year’s celebration holds special significance as it will be held in conjunction with the Muslim community’s breaking of fast, reflecting Sarawak’s spirit of unity and inclusiveness.
“Traditionally, the open house is held on the second day of CNY. However, this year we have scheduled it on the fifth day, from 5pm to 9pm, to enhance the atmosphere of breaking fast during Ramadan and allow more people to gather and share the festive joy,” he said in a statement.
He emphasised that the event is not only a celebration of the Lunar New Year but also a platform to strengthen unity and harmony among the diverse religious and cultural communities in Sarawak.
“The Lunar New Year celebration serves as an important platform to foster inter-ethnic relations, and reinforce unity,” he said.
“The participation of various communities each year makes this open house more welcoming and reflects the uniqueness of Sarawak,” he added.
Ting expressed hope that in the Year of the Horse, society will continue to live in harmony, with improved standards of living and stronger overall development compared to the previous year.
He also prayed that the new year will bring greater progress, well-being and prosperity to families, careers and community life.