Henry entertains attendees with his rendition of a Bidayuh song, ‘Kampung Love’.
KUCHING (June 17): Sarawak’s revenue growth from about RM6 billion to RM14 billion over the past seven years demonstrates the state’s remarkable progress under the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government, said Deputy Minister of Transport (Riverine and Marine) Datuk Henry Harry Jinep.
Speaking at the Uplands Tennis Club (UTC) Gawai ‘Marut Kirasah’ dinner on Tuesday night, he described the achievement as a modern-day “harvest” that all Sarawakians could celebrate during the Gawai Dayak festive season.
Henry said Sarawak’s record revenue collection reflected the state’s rapid development and the effectiveness of policies implemented by the GPS administration.
“Over six to seven years, from RM6 billion to RM14 billion, you can see how Sarawak has progressed so much. We have every reason to celebrate after a good harvest.
“But we must continue to work hard so that the harvest will continue to be fruitful,” he said.
According to Henry, the state’s economic success has enabled the GPS government to channel the benefits of development to all Sarawakians regardless of race, age or religion.
“The Sarawak GPS government has returned what we have collected from the state’s revenue to the people of Sarawak.
“Irrespective of race, age or belief, we all enjoy the benefits of the harvest,” he added.
Henry noted that in the past, Gawai celebrations were closely linked to successful harvests, with communities only celebrating after a productive farming season.
“In the olden days, if there was no good harvest, there would be no Gawai celebration. Today, we have many reasons to celebrate because of the progress and achievements that Sarawak has attained,” he said.
Regarding the Uplands Tennis Club, he commended the club for fostering friendship and unity through sports, saying tennis had helped strengthen relationships and networks among players from different backgrounds.
“The spirit in tennis is not only about winning or losing. It is about friendship, networking and bringing people together. Year by year, we continue to build stronger bonds and expand our network,” he said.
He added that sporting activities play an important role in promoting harmony, mutual respect and social cohesion among Sarawakians.
“Tonight is about coming together as one community and one friendship. As one Sarawak and one Malaysia, we continue to strengthen our unity and harmony,” he said.
