KUCHING – Preparations for the upcoming Sarawak Day 2026 celebration were highlighted during a courtesy visit to the Sarawak Governor, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Haji Wan Junaidi bin Tuanku Jaafar, at Astana Sarawak on 13 July.
His Excellency was accompanied by Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Hajjah Fauziah binti Mohd Sanusi as they welcomed the Main Committee overseeing the state-wide event.
The delegation was led by YB Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, Sarawak Minister of Transport and the appointed minister in charge of the Sarawak Day 2026 celebration.
The meeting took place in the Main Reception Room at 11.00 am, where discussions centred on the final stages of planning and coordination for the festivities scheduled to begin on 21 July in Sibu.
Joining the committee were several senior figures from the Sarawak Government. Among them were YB Datuk Haji Len Talif Salleh, Deputy Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment; YB Datuk Dr Penguang Manggil, Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government; YB Datuk Abdullah bin Haji Saidol, Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and UKAS); and YB Datuk Murshid Diraja Dr Juanda Jaya, Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Integrity and Ombudsman).
Also present were YBrs Datu Hamdan bin Haji Sharbini, Director of the Sarawak State Protocol, Ceremonies and Event Management Unit (UPPANS); Dato Georgina Apphia Ngau, Director of the Other Religious Affairs Unit (UNIFOR); and YBrs Tuan Superi bin Awang Said, Resident of Sibu Division.
Their attendance reflected the broad representation of agencies involved in ensuring the success of the state’s annual commemoration.
During the briefing, the committee outlined the programme structure, logistical arrangements, and community engagement strategies designed to make the celebration inclusive and memorable.
The Sarawak Day event is expected to feature cultural showcases, official ceremonies, and public activities that highlight the state’s heritage and achievements.
Tun Pehin Sri Wan Junaidi expressed gratitude to the organising committee for their dedication and continuous efforts.
He emphasised that the celebration should not only be a well-executed event but also serve as a meaningful platform to reinforce unity among Sarawakians.
His Excellency noted that the occasion provides an opportunity to instil pride in Sarawak’s history and development journey, while encouraging future generations to cherish the state’s identity.
The Sarawak Day celebration, first introduced in 2016, marks the date when Sarawak gained self-government in 1963.
Over the years, the annual event has grown in scale, becoming a focal point for fostering community spirit and showcasing Sarawak’s cultural diversity.
The 2026 edition, hosted in Sibu, is expected to draw large crowds from across the state, with programmes tailored to engage both urban and rural communities.
Officials highlighted that preparations have been carefully coordinated to ensure smooth execution. Security arrangements, crowd management, and public facilities are being prioritised to guarantee a safe and enjoyable experience for attendees.
The involvement of multiple government departments underscores the collaborative approach taken to deliver a celebration that reflects Sarawak’s progress and aspirations.
The courtesy visit also symbolised the close relationship between the state leadership and the organising committee.
By receiving the delegation, the Sarawak Governor reaffirmed the importance of collective responsibility in preserving the values of unity, inclusivity, and respect for Sarawak’s diverse communities.
As the countdown to Sarawak Day 2026 continues, anticipation is building among residents and stakeholders.
The event is expected to highlight Sarawak’s achievements in governance, infrastructure, and social development, while reinforcing the state’s commitment to harmony and resilience.
With final preparations underway, the committee assured His Excellency that all aspects of the celebration are on track.
The visit concluded with optimism that Sarawak Day 2026 will stand as a landmark occasion, strengthening bonds across communities and reaffirming the state’s proud identity.
