MIRI: Some 40,000 people took part in a Christmas parade through the streets of Miri on Saturday (Dec 8) evening.

The huge turnout reflects the acceptance of all races and religions, which is a very special and priceless asset of Sarawak, said Sarawak Minister for Housing and Local Government Datuk Prof Dr Sim Kui Hian.

Dr Sim represents the state government in the parade that is organised by 15 Christian churches in Miri.

"Sarawak has something that is very precious that we must protect at all cost. This spirit of total acceptance among Sarawakians of all races and religions is very rare," he said.

Dr Sim added that Sarawak is also the only state with a special unit to look after the needs of all religions.

He said the state had given RM15mil this year for non-Muslims to upgrade their houses of worship, and added that RM20mil will be allocated next year.

Meanwhile, Mayor Adam Yii thanked the 15 churches in Miri for co-organising the mammoth Christmas parade with the city council.

This is the 11th year running that the parade has been held, he added.

Among the crowd that took part in the parade were students, community groups, ethnic bodies and also tourists.