BINTULU – Sarawak State Chief Minister, Tun Pehin Sri Dr. Haji Wan Junaidi bin Tuanku Jaafar, has called on all Malaysians to reflect on the true meaning of Malaysia Day 2025 by remembering the historic formation of Malaysia on 16 September 1963.
Together with his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah binti Mohd Sanusi, he reminded the people that Malaysia was built through unity and determination when Sabah, Sarawak, and the Federation of Malaya came together under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
Tun Pehin Sri explained that the establishment of Malaysia was not an overnight decision but the result of a detailed process. It began with the Malaysia Consultative Committee (MCC), followed by the creation of a sub-committee that examined legal and administrative matters. These studies were then presented to the Intergovernmental Committee (IGC), which produced a comprehensive report that included Sarawak’s demands. The findings later formed the foundation of MA63 after being tabled in the British Parliament.
He also highlighted the role of Sarawak’s past leaders who worked hard to safeguard the rights of the state during the negotiations. Among them were Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, Temenggong Tun Jugah, Tan Sri Ling Beng Siew and Datuk Abang Mustapha Abang Moasli. Their voices, he said, ensured that the interests of Sarawakians were protected.
“I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to all those who contributed, whether in negotiations or behind the scenes. Their sacrifices and commitment have ensured that Sarawak’s rights remain secure until today,” he said.
Tun Pehin Sri further stressed that Sarawak continues to uphold the spirit of MA63 while pursuing its new development agenda, which includes renewable energy, hydrogen, digital economy, tourism, quality education, and modern infrastructure.
He said that such progress is made possible by the strong unity of Sarawak’s more than 70 ethnic groups who live together in peace, harmony, and mutual respect.
“In line with this year’s theme, Malaysia MADANI: Rakyat Disantuni and Sarawak Maju Makmur Dalam Malaysia, let us remain united, preserve stability, and build a brighter future for the next generation,” he added.
Tun Pehin Sri and Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi also conveyed their warmest wishes to all Malaysians on the occasion of Malaysia Day 2025. — TYT Sarawak