SIBU: Barriers that divide Malaysians must be removed because they, visible or invisible, bring about psychological divide among the people.

Minister of International Trade and E-Commerce Dato Sri Wong Soon Koh said: “Some historians say Malaysia is unified but not united. Others say Malaysia is united but not unified, meaning, we are neither united nor unified.

“We cannot allow this sort of situation to perpetuate. We have to bring about greater
unity.”

Wong, who is also Second Finance Minister, said this at the Sarawak Day celebration at the Islamic Complex here yesterday.

He said it is important to be understanding, tolerant, helpful, give-and-take attitude, have a concern for other people’s feelings, sincerity, care, understanding and goodwill.

“It is also important to have a strong conviction in our mind that we truly want unity for all of us, particularly in Sarawak, for the good of our children and our grandchildren,” he
added.

He said the nation’s two greatest enemies, namely racism and religious fanaticism, are serious obstacles to the nation’s unity.

“It is important for the people to socialise to avoid becoming polarised. We must break down all barriers among us. There are many kinds of barriers visible and invisible,” he said.

On Sarawak Day, he said it is important for the people to understand that Sarawak played an instrumental role in the formation of Malaysia.

“Many people thought that Sarawak was admitted into Malaysia.”

He said Sarawak had been celebrating National Day every year on Aug 31 for so many years.

“However, three years ago, the late Pehin Sri Adenan Satem wanted July 22 to be proclaimed as Sarawak Day because that was the day Sarawak assumed self-government.

“On July 22, 1963, Sarawak attained self-government from the British and remained so until Sept 16, 1963 when it formed the Federation of Malaysia together with Sabah, Singapore and Malaya. This is the history that we ought to know.”

On the celebration, he said it created a heightened awareness among the community, particularly community leaders, on Sarawak Day.

Wong also urged the people to rally behind Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg for greater development in Sarawak.

Sibu Resident Charles Siaw, Sibu District Officer Awang Yusof Awang Mostapha and Sibu Municipal Council chairman Datuk Tiong Thai King were among those present at the gathering.