SIBU – Thousands of residents and dignitaries gathered at Dataran Tun Tuanku Haji Bujang on the evening of 22 July to mark Sarawak Day 2026.
The event was headlined by the presence of the state’s head of state, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Haji Wan Junaidi bin Tuanku Jaafar, and his consort, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Hajjah Fauziah binti Mohd Sanusi.
Their attendance underscored the significance of the occasion, which commemorates the anniversary of Sarawak achieving self-rule in 1963.
The royal couple arrived at approximately 8.20pm, where they were received by a high-profile delegation. Leading the welcome party was the Premier of Sarawak, YAB Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari, accompanied by his daughter, Puan Dayang Nurjihan.
Also present were key federal and state figures, including Deputy Prime Minister YAB Datuk Amar Haji Fadillah bin Haji Yusuf and his spouse, YABhg. Datin Sri Hajah Ruziah binti Mohd Tahir.
The guest list reflected the broad support for the celebration, featuring Deputy Premiers, the Speaker of the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly YB Tan Sri Datuk Amar Haji Mohamad Asfia bin Awang Nassar, and the Minister in Charge of the 2026 celebrations, YB Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin.
Senior civil servants, members of parliament, and various department heads also attended with their families, contributing to a crowd estimated at over 10,000 people.
In his address, Premier Abang Jo highlighted the profound meaning behind the Governor’s presence. He noted that Sarawak Day serves as more than just an annual festival; it is a vital reminder of the state’s historical journey.
The Premier emphasised the collective effort of Sarawakians in forging a distinct identity, safeguarding their dignity, and charting a future course for the region.
Abang Jo took the opportunity to honour Tun Wan Junaidi’s extensive service record. He recalled the Governor’s earlier years in the security forces, where he played a crucial role in maintaining peace during periods of confrontation and insurgency.
The Premier also praised his later contributions as a federal minister, particularly his work in the Prime Minister’s Department, which helped restore Sarawak’s status as an equal partner within the Malaysian federation.
“The presence of TYT Tun Pehin Sri and Toh Puan is very meaningful because Sarawak Day is not just an annual celebration, but rather a reminder of the long journey of the people of Sarawak in building their identity, defending their dignity and determining the future direction of the state,” the Premier stated.
He further described the Governor as a living symbol of continuity, representing the ongoing struggle to protect state interests and harmony under the framework of the Federal Constitution and the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
The Premier concluded his speech with prayers for the health and well-being of the royal couple, wishing them continued success as unifying figures for all Sarawakians.
YB Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, the Minister responsible for the event, echoed these sentiments. He portrayed Tun Wan Junaidi as a figure who embodies the historical and developmental arc of Sarawak.
From his beginnings as a young police officer to holding significant federal offices, the Governor’s career mirrors the state’s own evolution.
Lee pointed out the particular relevance of holding this year’s celebration in Sibu. The division holds personal historical significance for the Governor, who previously served in the Rajang Area Security Command (RASCOM), working to secure peace in the central region.
This local connection added a layer of depth to the proceedings, linking past security efforts with present-day prosperity.
The Minister also highlighted the Governor’s pivotal role in amending the Federal Constitution. These legal changes were instrumental in recognising Sarawak as a founding territory of Malaysia, thereby strengthening its position and dignity within the federation.
Lee described the Governor as an inspiration to the younger generation, exemplifying integrity, courage, and patriotism.
The ceremony included several symbolic acts, including the raising of the Sarawak state flag and the singing of the state anthem, “Ibu Pertiwiku.” The event theme, ‘Sarawak Maju Makmur, Segulai Sejalai’ (Sarawak Progressive and Prosperous, Together We Walk), was prominently featured.
Attendees watched a special video presentation titled ‘Sarawak: Dahulu, Kini dan Masa Depan’, which traced the administrative and developmental trajectory of the state from its early days to its current ambitions for becoming a developed region.
The evening concluded with a fireworks display, enjoyed by the Governor, Toh Puan, and other VIPs before their departure.
The celebration served as a powerful platform to reinforce Sarawak’s identity as a sovereign entity within Malaysia while fostering patriotism and unity among its multi-racial population.
Both Tun Wan Junaidi and Toh Puan expressed their hopes for the state’s continued progress, wishing its people lasting prosperity and well-being.
