(From right) Raghad points out to Taib an old photograph displayed at the Sarawak Day 2017 exhibition, as Abang Johari looks on. The Chief Minister is flanked by Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan on his right and Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian.
Young women, all dressed in colourful traditional costumes, perform the welcoming dance.
KUCHING: It was a colourful Sarawak Day 2017 event here yesterday, with people from all walks of life converging on Kuching Waterfront to celebrate the day when the state was granted self-governance in 1963, prior to the formation of Malaysia on Sept 16 that same year.
July 22 was gazetted as a state holiday last year.
Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud and his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Raghad Kurdi Taib graced the ceremony yesterday, which commenced with the singing of Sarawak anthem ‘Ibu Pertiwiku’ around 9am.
This was followed by a welcome dance performance before Taib and Raghad, Chief Minister Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg and his wife Datin Amar Dato Juma’ani Tuanku Bujang as well as state cabinet members, head of government departments and agencies, community leaders, students and other spectators.
There was a video presentation on the history of Sarawak played before the start of a special performance staged by the pupils of SK RPR Jalan Astana.
In a special address, Abang Johari said: “We are very honoured to have you among us here this morning, Tun (Taib) to celebrate the anniversary of July 22 — now called Sarawak Day.
“It is most appropriate that you are with us today because 54 years ago, you were present at the creation – not only as a spectator but also as a participant witnessing the formation of self-government, the formation of Malaysia and the setting down of conditions before Sarawak became a party in the formation of Malaysia. You are the last living member of that first state cabinet.
“Thank you Tun and Toh Puan for being able to be here with the ‘rakyat’ (people) this morning to celebrate this very special day for all Sarawakians.”
Taib and Raghad later visited an exhibition set up as part of the programmes of the Sarawak Day 2017 celebration.
Primary school children during a medley of Sarawak Day 2017 performances at Kuching Waterfront.
Pupils of SK RPR Jalan Astana entertain the spectators with a choral performance.
Taib and Raghad wave the Sarawak flags during a segment of the event. Flanking the couple are Abang Johari and Juma’ani. — Photos by Muhammad Rais Sanusi