KUCHING: Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi are scheduled to grace the closing ceremony of the 21st Pesta Benak Sri Aman on Dec 1.
Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development Datuk Francis Harden Hollis confirmed that Wan Junaidi’s first appearance at the festival as Sarawak Governor was expected to draw significant attention from locals and international visitors.
“I am sure that the presence of our Governor at the closing ceremony will be highly anticipated and will attract the interest of the local community,” he said during a courtesy call to Wan Junaidi at Kasuma Resort, Petra Jaya, earlier today (Nov 14).
The festival will also feature Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg who will officiating at the opening ceremony on Nov 29.
Harden believes the participation of both leaders will energise the festivities and stimulate local economic activity.
“This year’s Pesta Benak promises exciting events such as the Miss Tourism competition, the Regatta, and Pesta Ria.
“We are also offering diverse food stalls and sports activities to encourage community participation,” he said.
He added that over 2,500 participants haf already registered for the Benak Ride, with attendees from Kuching, Sibu, and Sarikei. The Sri Aman Regatta’s grand prize has been increased to RM25,000 from RM15,000 last year, further boosting interest in the event.
Harden is optimistic that the increased scale of celebration will benefit the local economy and the community.
Also present during the courtesy call were Sri Aman Division Resident Mahra Saleh, Administrative Officer Ramon Addy Mroon, and members of the Pesta Benak Sri Aman Main Committee.
