Jaujan
KOTA KINABALU: The birthday celebration of the Head of State Tun Dr Haji Juhar Datuk Haji Mahiruddin will feature two new programmes this year.
Chairman of the Organising Committee of the TYT birthday celebration Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Jaujan Sambakong said there would be 12 programmes this year, with the addition of a high-powered motorcycle convoy and Excellence Award for State Athletes.
“On October 19, a convoy of high-powered motorcycles led by the TYT himself will make its way to Kota Belud from Kota Kinabalu.
“The response for this programme has been very encouraging and we’re expecting over 200 participants from biking associations not only from Sabah, but West Malaysia and Brunei as well.
“This was added to the itinerary because biking is one of Tun Juhar’s hobbies. He also thought it was a good way to engage with youths, as biking is a popular activity among that age group.
“In addition, it would also be a good way to involve the public at large, as onlookers and passers-by throughout the journey from Kota Kinabalu to Kota Belud would surely be attracted by the convoy.
“The other new addition to this year’s TYT birthday celebration is the Excellence Award for State Athletes. We commend the initiative by the Ministry of Youth and Sports Sabah to recognise the contribution of our State athletes.
“Previously, this kind of recognition was only given at the federal level so it’s about time that it is done in Sabah. Our athletes have excelled not only at the national level but even internationally, so it’s only right that they are recognised by the State,” said Jaujan.
The 66th birthday celebration of Sabah’s Head of State will commence on October 3 with prayers and tahlil recitation at the Sabah State Mosque, followed by annual programmes such as the parade at Padang Merdeka and presentation of State awards and medals, before closing with Malam Sanjungan Kasih on November 5.
Jaujan said the programmes were meant to remind the public at large of the role of the Head of State, as well as bring the people closer together with Tun Juhar. The public are encouraged to join in the activities throughout the birthday celebration.