KUCHING – The Pustaka Negeri Sarawak celebrated its Silver Jubilee with a walkaround tour highlighting both its historical journey and future expansion plans. The event, held on Thursday, was officiated by Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Integrity and Ombudsman), Datuk Dr. Juanda Jaya, who explored displays chronicling the library’s 25-year evolution.
The tour began under a decorative archway featuring visual panels that traced the Sarawak Government’s longstanding commitment to literacy, information access, and community knowledge services.
Milestone exhibits showcased key programmes, partnerships, and achievements that have shaped Pustaka’s identity since its establishment in 2000.
As Dr. Juanda moved through the displays, he was briefed on Pustaka’s progress in digital transformation, records preservation, community outreach, and public service delivery. Each section demonstrated how the institution has modernised to remain relevant in an increasingly digital knowledge landscape.
The highlight of the tour was the unveiling of a miniature model of Pustaka’s upcoming new building, which represents the next phase of growth for the state library.
The model illustrated expanded learning facilities, enhanced archival capacity, modern community spaces, and technology-enriched environments designed to meet future demands.
Dr. Juanda expressed particular interest in features emphasising accessibility, innovation, and user-centric design, reflecting the library’s ambition to strengthen its role as a dynamic public knowledge hub.
Officers explained how the expansion aligns with Sarawak’s broader goals of advancing digital literacy, service integration, and information management.
The Silver Jubilee also coincided with announcements by state leaders on the establishment of a new Sarawak Archives building, which will house historic documents including the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) sourced from London.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg noted that the archives will be equipped with advanced preservation technology, ensuring secure storage in both physical and digital formats.
This development complements Pustaka’s expansion, reinforcing Sarawak’s commitment to safeguarding heritage while embracing modern knowledge systems.
The integration of archival facilities and library services is expected to enhance research opportunities and support lifelong learning across the state.
The walkaround tour served as a visual narrative of Pustaka’s journey from its inception to its confirmed expansion.
It underscored the institution’s enduring mission to provide accessible education, foster community advancement, and adapt to the evolving demands of information management.
With its new facilities and strengthened archival capacity, Pustaka Negeri Sarawak is poised to remain a cornerstone of knowledge and culture in Sarawak, bridging the past with the future.
Sources: UKAS, Sarawak Daily
