LINGGA – The closing day of the D’Astana Travel Programme in Lingga was marked by a significant cultural event as the Governor of Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Haji Wan Junaidi bin Tuanku Jaafar, and his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah binti Mohd Sanusi, attended the Lingga-Banting Manuscript Handover Ceremony at Al-Hana Lingga Mosque Hall on 3 May 2026.
The ceremony highlighted the preservation of local heritage, with the symbolic handover of the Lingga-Banting Canon Manuscript by former Temenggong Lingga, Tuan Haji Bohari bin Abang Haji Zain, representing the heirs of the Banting-Lingga lineage.
The manuscript, alongside other historical documents, genealogies, and traditional artefacts, reflects the governance and legal traditions of the past community.
The governor and his wife also viewed a mini-exhibition showcasing manuscripts and cultural relics, including traditional weapons and rare historical records.
A special video presentation entitled Traces of the Heirs of Syarif Akil Kerajaan Banting-Lingga provided further insight into the region’s historical legacy.
In addition to the cultural proceedings, Tun Pehin Sri Wan Junaidi presented a donation of RM20,000 to Temenggong Mohamad Shah bin Achang on behalf of the Al-Hana Lingga Mosque management, underscoring the administration’s support for local religious institutions.
The event was attended by prominent figures including Datuk Amar Jaul Samion, Advisor at the Office of the Premier of Sarawak; YB Datuk Mong Dagang, Bukit Begunan assemblyman; YB Dayang Hajah Noorazah binti Awang Sohor, Lingga assemblyman; and Mr Mahra bin Salleh, Resident of Sri Aman Division.
Also present were Professor Dr Firdaus Abdullah, Rector of UiTM Sarawak Branch; Datu Dr Sanib bin Said, General Manager of Amanah Khairat Sarawak Malay Culture Foundation; Mr Frank Lani, Lingga District Officer; as well as senior government officials, tribal leaders, and community representatives.
In her welcoming remarks, YB Dayang Hajah Noorazah expressed gratitude for the Governor’s presence, noting its sentimental significance for the communities of Lingga, Sebuyau, and Triso.
The governor and his wife later joined in a photo session with descendants of Tuanku Tubi bin Tuanku Lada Al Yahya and members of the local community, reinforcing the familial and cultural ties celebrated during the programme.
The governor conveyed appreciation for the handover of manuscripts and heritage materials, describing them as invaluable historical treasures. He also extended thanks to researchers and organisers for their role in ensuring the success of the event.
The ceremony concluded with the governor, his wife, and their entourage departing Lingga aboard the Damai Princess catamaran, travelling down the Batang Lupar River to return to Kuching.
The occasion not only strengthened community bonds but also reaffirmed Sarawak’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage for future generations.
