KUCHING – Sarawak Governor Tun Pehin Sri Dr Haji Wan Junaidi bin Tuanku Jaafar sent his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah binti Mohd Sanusi, to Kuching International Airport yesterday as she left for Kuala Lumpur.
The couple touched down at the terminal in the evening, to be welcomed by Tuan Haji Ahmad Zambri Shah bin Jeman, Head of Ceremonial and Protocol Section of Astana Sarawak and officers on duty. The sight has proven how much respect and formality the event held.
The Governor personally saw off Toh Puan Fauziah, manifesting the strong relationship between the duo and his dedication towards family obligations with his official engagements. They’re often considered to be symbolic of the Governor’s commitment to private as well as public life.
As Tun Pehin Sri Wan Junaidi sent off his wife to her departure, he wished for her safe travel as well as a successful and smooth trip in Kuala Lumpur. He said Lihan should be proud of her duty as an ambassador to represent Sarawak outside the state.
One of the busiest entrance gateway in East Malaysia, “Kuching International Airport” is often used as an embarkation/disembark designate for leaders and government representatives who are either attending state or working visit throughout the Sarawak division. The Governor being at the terminal made the evening that much more special, even for disengaged workers and officials.
Analysts pointed out that Tan Sri Taib’s effort in sending his spouse off was symbolic that family ties were also very important and that Sarawak leaders could still be close to their families even if they held top posts. It also shows the interchange between ritual etiquette and individual piety.
It is understood that the scheduled departure of Toh Puan Fauziah to Kuala Lumpur will be for official duties, reinforcing the presence of Sarawak’s leaders and their children in the national scene. Her moves in Vientiane will also help strengthen the links and representation of the state level.
The reception ended with cordial expressions passed between the Governor and his wife and the officers present, one of dignity and respect standing by each other. The incident was a reminder of the Governor’s double life as both public figure and supportive husband, but also a testament to leadership and family devotion.
