KUCHING – The Governor of Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Haji Wan Junaidi bin Tuanku Jaafar, accompanied by his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Hajjah Fauziah binti Mohd Sanusi, attended the staging of Tun Openg: The Beginning of a Legacy at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly’s Dewan Santapan in Petra Jaya on Saturday evening.
The performance drew a distinguished audience, including Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, who was joined by his daughter Puan Dayang Nurjihan.
Also present were Speaker of the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia bin Awang Nassar with his wife Dato Hajah Fatimah binti Haji Mohd Iskandar, former First Lady Toh Puan Hajah Hayati binti Ahmad, and Minister of Tourism, Creative Industries and Performing Arts Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah with his wife Datin Sri Hajah Zuraini binti Abdul Jaabar. Senior state leaders, deputy ministers, and other dignitaries were also in attendance.
The production was organised by the Bandarsah Kuching Art Children’s Organisation (PASBK) and presented as a biographical theatre piece.
It depicted the life and contributions of the late Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, Sarawak’s first Yang di-Pertua Negeri, who held office from 1963 until 1969.
Audiences were guided through key chapters of Tun Openg’s life, beginning with his early years, his experiences during the Japanese occupation, and his role in the period surrounding Malaysia’s formation.
The narrative highlighted his pivotal efforts in laying the groundwork for Sarawak’s stability, unity, and development.
The governor and his wife expressed gratitude to PASBK for producing a performance that not only celebrated the legacy of a respected statesman but also encouraged younger generations to appreciate the sacrifices and struggles of Sarawak’s historical figures.
The staging combined dramatic storytelling with emotional resonance, leaving attendees with a deeper appreciation of Tun Openg’s service and dedication.
His leadership was portrayed as instrumental in shaping the foundations of modern Sarawak, which continue to benefit the state today.
The evening underscored the importance of cultural performances in preserving historical memory and strengthening public awareness of Sarawak’s heritage.
By revisiting the life of Tun Openg, the production reinforced the values of resilience, unity, and progress that remain central to the state’s identity.
