BY NATASHA JEE & ALEXANDRA LORNA
KUCHING: A huge crowd comprising people from all walks of life congregated at the Kuching Waterfront as early as 9 am, to witness the official launching of the National Unity Week Celebration 2023 by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah today.
His Majesty arrived at the venue at around 11am and was received by the Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof and Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Bystanders including foreigners also observed the event which included cultural-related stage performances and the launch of the unity theme song titled ‘Setia Perpaduan’.
The theme song was an idea of His Majesty to promote the spirit of unity among Malaysian citizens. It was composed by renowned musician Datuk DJ Dave with the lyrics penned by Professor Dr Lim Swee Tin.
It was performed by famous singers including Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza, Jaclyn Victor, Bob Yusuf, Suki Low, Melissa Francis, Sissy Iman and Hacharan Singh.
Today’s event aimed to set two records in the Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) namely, the ‘Most Participants Wearing Ethnic Attire in An Event’ as well as for the ‘Most Ethnic Cultural Display In An Exhibition’.
By 11am, a total of 2,175 persons donning their ethnic costume participated in the challenge for the ‘Most Participants Wearing Ethnic Attire in An Event’ record, with the count concluding at 3pm.
The National Unity Week Celebration 2023, taking place from May 20 to 28 is being held across 15 locations nationwide, including Bertam Square in Penang; Papar Community Hall in Sabah; Dataran Tasik Kluang in Johor and Pantai Balok Recreational Centre in Kuantan, Pahang.
With the theme of ‘Unity in Diversity’, the primary objective of organising the Unity Week is to foster unity and enhance knowledge, understanding and appreciation of the diverse customs and cultures within the Malaysian society.
