SIBU – Thousands of residents gathered in the early morning hours at Dataran Tun Tuanku Bujang on Wednesday to participate in a massive community event marking Sarawak Day 2026.
The Unity Walk, a cornerstone of this year’s state celebrations, drew an estimated crowd exceeding ten thousand individuals, all united in a display of communal harmony and regional pride.
The atmosphere was vibrant as participants began assembling from six in the morning, eager to secure their place in the procession. The event served not merely as a physical activity but as a symbolic gesture of solidarity among the diverse communities that call Sarawak home.
By seven o’clock, the square was bustling with energy, setting the stage for the arrival of distinguished guests who would officially commence the proceedings.
Sarawak’s Yang di-Pertua Negeri, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, arrived alongside his consort, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi.
Their presence underscored the significance of the occasion, as they moved to officiate the launch of the walk.
The distinguished couple was greeted by a cadre of senior state officials, reflecting the high-level government support for the festivities. Among those accompanying the head of state were key figures in the current cabinet.
Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, who holds the dual portfolio of Minister of Tourism, Creative Industries and Performing Arts as well as Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, was in attendance.
He was joined by Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, the Minister of Transport and the minister specifically tasked with overseeing the Sarawak Day 2026 celebrations.
The gathering of leadership extended further to include Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah, the Minister of Women, Children and Community Wellbeing.
Also present were several deputy ministers and administrative heads, including State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, Deputy Minister of Public Health Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee, Deputy Minister of Education Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee, and Deputy Minister of Urban Planning Datuk Len Talif Salleh.
This broad representation highlighted the cross-departmental effort involved in organising such a large-scale public engagement.
Following the formal opening ceremonies, Tun Dr Wan Junaidi and Toh Puan joined the throng of walkers. They traversed the route amidst a lively and cheerful crowd, engaging with citizens and embodying the spirit of unity that the day seeks to promote.
The walk provided a rare opportunity for the public to interact directly with the state’s highest representative in a relaxed, informal setting.
After completing the walk, the Yang di-Pertua Negeri took time to explore the Sarawak Day 2026 History Exhibition. This exhibit offered attendees a chance to reflect on the state’s journey and achievements since its formation.
The educational component of the day allowed participants to deepen their understanding of local heritage while celebrating contemporary progress.
Later in the morning, the distinguished couple attended a breakfast function at Sibu Kitchen. It was during this segment of the programme that Tun Dr Wan Junaidi and Toh Puan were honoured with traditional gifts.
Community leaders from the Sibu Division, led by Temenggong Dato Sri Wan Hamid Edruce, presented them with sampin and keringkam shawls. These items are significant cultural artefacts, representing respect and the rich textile traditions of the region.
The day’s events in Sibu are set to continue into the evening. Plans are in place for the Sarawak Day 2026 Assembly and a People’s Concert to take place at the same venue.
The Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, is expected to join the festivities later in the day.
His anticipated attendance signals the culmination of the state-wide celebrations, bringing together political leadership and the general public for a final night of music and ceremony.
The success of the morning walk in Sibu mirrors similar events held across other divisions in Sarawak. These coordinated efforts aim to foster a stronger sense of identity and belonging among citizens.
As the state continues to develop, such gatherings serve as a reminder of the shared values and collective history that bind its people together.
The enthusiastic turnout in Sibu suggests a robust public appetite for these inclusive celebrations, reinforcing the social fabric of the region.
