BETONG: Sarawak has “hijrah” for the better following the implementation of development programmes allowing the state and its people to prosper, said Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak, Tun Abdul Taib Mahmud.
The Head of the State said cooperation between the Muslim community and people of other faiths in the state has helped to strengthen unity and spur development for Sarawak.
“I had flown from Kuching to Betong. I believe we have hijrah accordingly, based on my observation of the developments which have been taking place in Kuching, Samarahan, Sadong and straight to Saribas (during the flight).
“There are estates emerging and helping the people to generate income, compared to previously, when we could only see jungle everywhere.
“Hence, there are no areas that could not be developed, and we will try to carry out development programmes for the people,” said Taib in his speech during the state-level Maal Hijrah programme here today.
Among the 2,000 in attendance was his wife, Toh Puan Ragad Kurdi Taib and Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Abang Johari Openg, who was representing Chief Minister Tan Sri Adenan Satem.
The Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak also called upon other state leaders to continue embracing the hijrah spirit by sparing no effort to develop their states.
The Hijrah celebration, which commemorates the migration of Prophet Muhammad and his followers from Mecca to Madinah, should serve as a reminder to Muslim leaders that their responsibilities will continue to change and evolve over the years.
“This historic event in Islamic history demonstrates that our responsibilities change from time to time, and that we must perform tasks entrusted to us to fullest of our capabilities,” he added.