BETONG – Preparations are underway for the Official Birthday Celebration of His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong at the Sarawak Level XVII, which will be hosted in Betong Division on 13 June 2026.
The announcement was made following the Meeting of the Implementing Committee of the Other Religions’ Thanksgiving Ceremony No. 2/2026, chaired by YBhg. Dato Georgina Apphia Ngau, Director of the Other Religions’ Affairs Unit (UNIFOR).
The session, held on 19 May at the UNIFOR Meeting Room, brought together religious leaders, representatives of worship houses, government agencies, and strategic partners to ensure smooth coordination for the upcoming event.
UNIFOR has been entrusted since 2024 with the responsibility of organising the Thanksgiving Ceremony for Other Religions, complementing the Islamic Thanksgiving Ceremony managed by the Sarawak Islamic Religious Department (JAIS).
This arrangement reflects Sarawak’s commitment to harmony, unity, and respect for diversity, values that remain central to the state’s identity.
The Betong celebration will feature a wide range of activities across three key venues: Masjid Jamek Betong, Dewan Panglima Rentap, and Dewan Sukan Tan Sri Datuk Amar Stephen Kalong Ningkan.
Programmes planned include the Raja Kita Exhibition, a Special Sermon, and a People’s Concert, all designed to foster community spirit and gratitude.
The highlight of the festivities will be the Tea Ceremony on 14 June 2026, expected to be attended by His Excellency the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Dr. Haji Wan Junaidi bin Tuanku Jaafar, accompanied by his wife, Yang Amat Berbahagia Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah binti Mohd Sanusi. Their presence will underscore the significance of the occasion and the unity it represents.
This event also marks the beginning of UNIFOR’s 2026 calendar of Thanksgiving Ceremonies, which will continue with three more major events:
- A ceremony in conjunction with Sarawak Day on 20 July 2026.
- A ceremony in conjunction with Malaysia Day on 14 September 2026.
- A ceremony in conjunction with the Birthday Celebration of the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak on 9 October 2026.
The series of ceremonies highlights Sarawak’s ongoing efforts to celebrate its multicultural and multireligious society. By involving diverse communities in these events, the state reinforces its commitment to inclusivity and shared identity.
Betong’s role as host for this year’s King’s Day celebration is seen as a significant opportunity to showcase the division’s cultural vibrancy and community spirit. With preparations already in motion, organisers are confident the event will reflect Sarawak’s values of unity and respect across all faiths.
