Page 35 - The Guide To Sarawak

THE GUIDE TO SARAWAK
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peaceful and law abiding, drug abuse is rare, civil unrest is unheard of, the neighbouring countries are friendly (although borders are secured by
a professional military apparatus), and even the rural areas have a police presence, usually English speaking. Corporate crime is also rare; property rights are recognized and clearly defined, the legal system works, and corporate governance is strong.
Quality of life in Sarawak is one of its principal attractions. Private local and international schools are found in the major
cities, utilities function
well, the water is safe to drink, and blackouts are uncommon enough to make newspaper headlines. Shopping and nightlife are surprisingly cosmopolitan; major cities have large purpose-built malls and supermarkets bursting with imported goods bearing famous brand names and internationally recognised logos.
Sarawak is becoming increasingly popular as
a second home under
the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H Sarawak) programme, and it is easy to see why. Housing is
comfortable and affordable, traffic jams are rare,
the shopkeepers speak English and the neighbours are almost invariably friendly and welcoming to newcomers.
The defining characteristic of Sarawak is that it is very much a “country within a country”, not unlike Texas or Quebec. This enables
it to enjoy its own unique way of life, and encourages its citizens to take great pride in being Sarawakian. This pride is reflected in the state’s achievements, and most of all in the warm and sincere hospitality extended to visitors.
During 2013 Sarawak celebrated 50 years of independence (see page 46). The festival shown here was one of many held during this auspicious year, and shows the happiness and harmony among the ethnic communities. This is a delightful aspect of Sarawak’s society, easily experienced when visiting this remarkable state.