State declares date as public holiday to honour sacrifices of past leaders
The stage bursting with colourful confetti and balloons as Adenan (third left) sings a few songs while several senior ministers cheer and clap along.
KUCHING: Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem has declared July 22 a public holiday for Sarawak in remembrance of past leaders, who sacrificed much for the state’s independence.
He made the announcement yesterday at the official launch of the ‘Sejiwa Senada’ grand finale here.
“Today (Saturday) is a historic day for all of us. In honour of and to remember past leaders who have struggled for Sarawak’s independence, I declare July 22 as a public holiday for the state of Sarawak,” he said to a thunderous cheer.
“It will be Sarawak Day for us to remember the sacrifices and contributions of our past leaders.” Astonished by the overwhelming turnout, Adenan said he had never seen so many people gathering at one venue here.
“It is estimated that there are more than 50,000 people gathering here. This is the uniqueness of Sarawakians. We live in harmony. We sit down together, eat together, drink together and even find girls together,” he quipped.
Adenan pledged to work hard in developing the state together with all leaders and the people of Sarawak so that ‘we will not be left behind as compared to Peninsular Malaysia’.
He highlighted the 53 achievements for the betterment of the people since he took office two years ago.
Adenan also stressed that he would continue to pursue negotiations for the return of autonomy to the state.
“I want those powers back. We don’t want to be the colony of Kuala Lumpur or anybody at all. We also want to claim our rights for oil royalty as five per cent is definitely not enough.
“(Because) I am your chief minister, not of Kedah or other states. So whatever that involves my land and affects my people, I will fight for you — all the way!” he said, urging Sarawakians to do the same for him.
Adenan also reiterated the need for a big mandate and another five years to fulfil his obligations towards transforming Sarawak so that he could tell the federal government: “I represent Sarawak.”
“So give me the mandate and together, we can develop Sarawak the way we want to. Let’s work together in the coming state election. See what is right and wrong,” he said, adding that Sarawakians would decide the fate of the state and Malaysia when they go to the polls on May 7.
“Let us be united with once voice to fight for Sarawak in Malaysia.” This city was the last leg of the Sejiwa Senada programme, which had been held in nine locations statewide since January.
The programme to promote the spirit of togetherness, strengthen cooperation between the people and government, as well as provide a one-stop centre for the convenience of the people, had been deemed a huge success.
The event yesterday also hosted Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Alfred Jabu, Tourism Minister Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg, Works Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, Second Resource Planning and Environment Minister Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan and Adenan’s wife Datin Patinggi Datuk Jamilah Anu.