Sarawakians very lucky not split by race, religion, says Adenan

"We have been living in peace and harmony and we must keet it that way. Do not follow the attitude of some groups and individuals in West Malaysia who are quarrelling every day.

"They (West Malaysians) should emulate our example in Sarawak," he said, reiterating his stand that as long as he was chief minister, he would not allow racists and extermists to come over to Sarawak.

He said this at the Pesta Birumuh Serian 2015 (Padi Planting Festival) at the Serian Mini Stadium, Saturday.

More than 10,000 people, including Bidayuh leaders, attended the event.

Earlier at the festival, Adenan declared the Serian and Tebedu district, together with the Siburan sub-district, would become a new division in the state.

“Today, April 11, 2015 is a historical day for Serian because on this day, I declare from this day onwards, Serian and Tebedu district, together with Siburan sub-district, become Serian Division,” he said to the beat of gongs and drums/gendang, followed by a 10-minute display of firecrackers at the mini-stadium.

“Your wish is granted. If there is the Samarahan Division for the Malay community, Kapit for Iban, Sibu for Chinese, Mukah for Melanau and Miri for the Orang Ulu, then Serian should be for the Bidayuh. The Bidayuh deserve to have its own division because you want to be recognised in Malaysia and Sarawak,” noted Adenan.

In his speech, Adenan also announced a RM2 million grant to the Bidayuh Community through the Dayak Bidayuh National Association for its education fund.