KUCHING: The Sarawak Day celebration to be centred in Bintulu this year will feature seven interesting and exciting activities.
The celebration will be held from July 20 to 22.
Utilities Minister Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom said this year’s celebration is the first time that Sarawak Day is celebrated outside Kuching.
“It is a good chance for the people in Bintulu and those from the surrounding areas to join and witness the celebration to commemorate our very special day in Sarawak.
“It is very important for all Sarawakians, especially the younger generation to know our history leading to self-governance on July 22, 1963 from the British government, 56 years ago.
“The first State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting was also held in Bintulu so it is very significant that Bintulu is the host for this year’s Sarawak day celebrations,” he said in a press conference yesterday.
Dr Rundi, who is minister in charge of the celebration, called on all those living in and around Bintulu to take this opportunity to join the activities in full force to commemorate Sarawak Day with their family and friends, after all the day is a public holiday.
He also encouraged the public to fly the Sarawak flag on their premises as a mark of respect to commemorate Sarawak Day.
Meanwhile, the seven events featured in the celebration are e-Sports (July 20-22), Sarawak Day Run (July 21), thanksgiving prayer (July 21), We love Sarawak concert (July 21), Sarawak Day rally (July 22), exhibition (July 22-28) and Love Sarawak through history (July 20-21).
The highlight of the celebration will be the rally on July 22 which will be held at the Old Airport Road.
It will start at 9.30 am soon after the arrival of the Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud.
Some 10,000 people comprising members of NGOs, associations, civil servants, students from secondary schools, public and private universities and community leaders are expected to participate in the rally.
Distinguished guests will include the Governor’s wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Raghad Kurdi Taib, Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg and wife, Datuk Amar Juma’ani Tuanku Bujang, state cabinet ministers and other dignitaries.
There will be entertainment by famous local singers, choir and video presentations, among others.
