SIBU – The state’s highest officeholder joined the local community in a significant display of unity and spiritual reflection on Monday evening. His Excellency the Governor of Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Dr. Haji Wan Junaidi bin Tuanku Jaafar, attended the Thanksgiving and Maulid Zikir Ceremony at the An-Nur Mosque. The event formed a central pillar of the broader celebrations marking Sarawak Day 2026.
The gathering underscored the administration’s focus on fostering inter-communal harmony. By participating in religious observances that blend Islamic tradition with themes of universal gratitude, the state leadership aimed to reinforce social cohesion among the diverse populations of the region.
The ceremony was designed to cultivate appreciation for the peace and prosperity enjoyed by the state while strengthening spiritual values across racial and religious lines.
Upon his arrival, the Governor was received by a high-profile delegation of state officials. Among those welcoming him were YB Datuk Amar Haji Mohamad Abu Bakar bin Marzuki, the Secretary to the Sarawak Government, and his spouse.
Also present to greet the dignitary was YB Dr. Haji Juanda bin Jaya, who serves as Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department with a portfolio covering integrity and ombudsman duties. Dr. Juanda held specific responsibility for overseeing the gratitude ceremony.
The welcome party included several other key figures in the state machinery. YB Datuk Len Talif Salleh, Deputy Minister of Town Planning, Land Administration and Environment, attended alongside YB Datuk Dr. Annuar bin Rapaee, the Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development.
Religious leadership was represented by Sahibus Siyadah Ustaz Haji Mual bin Haji Suaud, Director of the Islamic Religious Department, while administrative authority was present in the form of Encik Superi bin Awang Said, the Sibu Division Resident.
Accompanying the Governor throughout the engagement was YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah. The minister, who holds dual portfolios for Tourism, Creative Industries and Performing Arts as well as Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, was joined by his wife, YBhg. Datin Sri Hajah Zuraini binti Abdul Jabbar.
Their presence highlighted the cross-ministerial support for the cultural and spiritual aspects of the Sarawak Day festivities.
The proceedings commenced with the congregational Maghrib prayer, setting a solemn tone for the evening. This was followed by the recitation of Surah Yaasin, led by Sahibul Fadilah Dato Haji Mustapha Kamal bin Haji Ahmad Fauzi, the Grand Imam of Sarawak.
The spiritual atmosphere was further enhanced by a performance of Zikir Marhaban delivered by the Gabungan Kumpulan Zikir Bahagian Sibu, a local group dedicated to devotional chanting.
Before the congregation dispersed for the night, the Grand Imam led the recitation of Doa Kesyukuran, or the Prayer of Gratitude. Attendees then performed the obligatory Isyak prayer together.
It was after this final prayer that Yang Amat Berbahagia Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Hajjah Fauziah binti Mohd Sanusi arrived to join her husband, the Governor, for the subsequent dinner reception.
The evening meal served as a networking opportunity for state leaders and community representatives. Joining the Governor and Toh Puan were several other ministers and dignitaries.
YB Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, the Minister of Transport and the minister in charge of the overall Sarawak Day Celebration 2026, attended with his wife, YBhg. Datin Sri Kong Shui Lin.
They were joined by YBhg. Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development, and his spouse, YBhg. Datin Sri Kelly ak Rebid.
Other notable guests included YB Tan Sri Datuk Amar Haji Mohamad Asfia bin Awang Nassar, Speaker of the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly, and YB Dato Sri Hajah Fatimah Abdullah, Minister of Women, Children and Community Development.
The international dimension of the event was acknowledged by the presence of YBhg. Dr. Abdullah Zulkifli, Consul General of the Republic of Indonesia in Kuching, alongside heads of various departments and community leaders.
The inclusion of such a diverse group of attendees reflects the broader objectives of the Sarawak Day celebrations. Beyond mere festivity, the events aim to solidify the spirit of togetherness.
The active participation of the Governor and the Toh Puan signals a continued commitment to preserving harmony and ensuring the well-being of all citizens as the state progresses into the future.
