Datuk Sebastian Ting
MIRI: Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) welcomes the police in particular and the state government for giving approval to the organiser of the July 22 rally to hold a gathering at the MCC Field on July 19, to celebrate Sarawak’s independence from British colonial rule on July 22, 1963.
Its secretary-general Datuk Sebastian Ting hoped that similar approval would be given to the organisers in Bintulu and Sibu to hold the rally also on Sunday and in Kuching on July 22.
“I am happy that the organiser has been able to obtain approval from police here for the Sunday event although it is only for the rally. On behalf of SUPP and the people of Sarawak I would like to say thank you to the police and the government for taking into consideration the general feelings and desires of the people of Sarawak to celebrate this happy and memorable event,” Ting said when asked to comment on the approval for the 52nd Sarawak Independence celebration in Miri.
Earlier, an application to hold a parade was turned down prompting SUPP to issue a press statement on Wednesday urging the government to reconsider its decision.
Ting added that the people of Sarawak were looking forward to celebrate July 22 to commemorate Sarawak’s independence from British rule on the same day in 1963.
“SUPP, as a political party which helped to fight for independence is happy that many people are now more aware of the date. Thus, it is an obligation to let the people, especially Sarawakians, know the historical event,” he said.
Acting district police chief, Supt Stanley Jonathan Ringgit said eight conditions were contained in the approval letter which the organiser must abide by.
Topping the list is maintaining public order so as not to threaten the existing peace and harmony. There should not be any banner of any form urging for referendum and all activities must be held at the MCC field.