KUCHING – The Menteri Besar of Pahang, Dato Sri Diraja Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail, and his wife Datin Sri Diraja Dato Burhah Mohammed, arrived in Sarawak on Thursday evening to begin a three-day official visit aimed at strengthening ties between the two states.
The delegation touched down at Kuching International Airport at 8.20 p.m., where they were received by Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni, Deputy Minister for Energy and Environmental Sustainability of Sarawak.
The visit is part of a reciprocal exchange, following the official trip made by Sarawak Governor Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi to Pahang earlier this year.
The official programme includes a Sarawak-Pahang Appreciation Dinner at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly Complex on Friday evening. Guests will be treated to cultural performances at the Dewan Santapan ceremonial hall, highlighting shared values of heritage preservation and people-centred development.
On Saturday, the delegation will travel to Seri Gedong Songket in Simunjan, where they will explore Sarawak’s renowned weaving traditions. The visit underscores the state’s commitment to supporting artisanal crafts, community entrepreneurship, and cultural identity revival through textile heritage.
Later that evening, the Menteri Besar is scheduled to officiate the opening of the Sarawak Drum Festival 2025 at the Kuching Waterfront. The event will feature a vibrant showcase of rhythm and tradition, culminating in a musical fountain and fireworks display, a highlight that has become a signature attraction for both locals and visitors.
The Menteri Besar’s formal programme will conclude with an early morning departure on 2 November, while his wife will continue engagements focused on cultural activities and community-driven initiatives.
Sarawak officials emphasised that the visit reflects the state’s aspiration to elevate cultural diplomacy, strengthen interstate goodwill, and foster meaningful collaboration in areas of shared interest. The itinerary also highlights the role of cultural exchanges in promoting unity and creativity within Malaysia’s diverse society.
For both Sarawak and Pahang, the visit is seen as an opportunity to deepen cooperation, celebrate diversity, and reinforce the bonds of friendship that underpin national solidarity.
