SIBUTI: Political and economic stability in the country due to strong unity amongst a multi-racial and multi-religious society are the catalyst and foundation for development and progress of Malaysia.

Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Alfred Jabu, at the launch of the Sibuti Regatta here yesterday, said Sarawak has witnessed and experienced tremendous development and progress for the past 50 years of independence through Malaysia.

“The unity among the people has enabled them to work together not only among themselves but also with government agencies and bodies and the private sector in the implementation of development activities and programmes,” he said.

Jabu said rural areas such as Sibuti have not been left behind although it seems to be taking quite a long time for development to be relatively seen or felt by the people.

“Nobody was or will be left behind in terms of development and progress of the country,” said Jabu adding that the Coastal Highway and Pan-Borneo Highway would pave the way for more progress or development of rural areas such as Sibuti.

These roads will provide them with the opportunity to expand their business and economic activities beyond the area, he added.

Jabu said therefore it is important for the people to continue and enhance the unity among them to bring changes not only within the family, community but the area as a whole.

“I know and understand it is not easy to organise this regatta without unity and cooperation and the support from everybody. Without these, it would be impossible for you to be successful in organising this regatta,” he added.

In this context, Jabu called on the people to emulate and continue with the cooperation to bring development and progress to the area.

Also present were  Datuk Empiang Jabu, Sibuti MP Ahmad Lai Bujang, Bekenu assemblywoman Rosey Yunus and Lambir assemblyman Ripin Lamat.

Around 30,000 people are expected to converge in Niah over the three-day regatta.