SIBU – The Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, officiated the Sibu Division Loyal Service Medal Presentation Ceremony 2026 on 10 July, recognising the dedication of 212 civil servants from Sibu and Kapit Divisions.
The ceremony, held at the RH Hotel in Sibu, marked the fifth such event organised by the Sarawak Government this year. It forms part of the state’s annual programme to acknowledge the loyalty and contributions of public service members who have played a vital role in Sarawak’s development.
Recipients represented 20 ministries, departments and agencies, reflecting the breadth of service across the divisions. The Sarawak State Education Department recorded the highest number of awardees with 75 individuals, followed by the Sibu Municipal Council with 37, and the Sarawak State Health Department with 24.
Among the honourees were several long-serving civil servants whose careers spanned over four decades. Three officers from the Health Department – Mr Reddy bin Mohd Harun, Mr Ringkai anak Sumok and Mrs Sulan anak Sawing – were recognised for 41 years of service. Two educators, Mrs Raanah binti Lai and Mrs Wong Leong Choo, each received medals for 40 years of commitment to the State Education Department.
The Loyal Service Medal is awarded to civil servants who have served continuously for 20 years or cumulatively for 25 years. Eligibility requires an excellent service record, freedom from disciplinary action, and endorsement from the respective Head of Department.
Agencies represented among the recipients included the Sibu Division Resident’s Office, Kapit Division Resident’s Office, Sarawak Land and Survey Department, Public Works Department, Irrigation and Drainage Department, Agriculture Department, Islamic Religious Department, Social Welfare Department, Syariah Judicial Department, State Court, Rivers Board, Kapit District Council, Sibu Rural District Council, Malaysian Information Department Sarawak, and the State Inspectorate.
The Premier, in his address, emphasised the importance of recognising loyalty and excellence within the civil service. He noted that the awards reflect the government’s appreciation for individuals who have contributed significantly to the state’s progress and who embody the values of dedication and integrity.
The ceremony also highlighted Sarawak’s aspiration to build a world-class civil service. By honouring long-serving staff, the government aims to inspire younger officers to uphold high standards of professionalism and commitment. Such recognition is seen as a way to strengthen morale and encourage continuity in service delivery.
Observers noted that the event underscored the government’s broader vision of fostering a culture of excellence within the civil service. The recognition of staff from diverse agencies illustrates the collective effort required to support Sarawak’s growth, from education and healthcare to infrastructure and social welfare.
The Loyal Service Medal Presentation Ceremony has become a fixture in Sarawak’s calendar, reinforcing the state’s commitment to valuing its workforce. For many recipients, the award represents not only a personal milestone but also a symbol of the government’s trust and appreciation for their contributions.
As Sarawak continues to pursue development goals, the role of civil servants remains central. Their dedication ensures that policies and programmes are effectively implemented, benefiting communities across the state. The recognition of 212 individuals in Sibu and Kapit serves as a reminder of the vital role played by the civil service in shaping Sarawak’s future.
