KUCHING: Sarawak celebrates its formal Independence Day on Sarawak Day.
It is observed by paying respect to former leaders for their enormous role to achieving independence from British domination.
Every year on July 22, Sarawak celebrates its independence, which is recognised as a public holiday.
Across the state, parades, exhibitions, cultural events, and much more begin a day, two, or even week in advance.
After two years of hybrid festivities due to the COVID-19 outbreak, the 2022 Sarawak Day will take place at the Sibu Indoor Stadium.
The significance of the occasion is not lost on Sarawakians now living abroad.
Muhd Iqmal Hatta, 39, from Kuching who migrated to Melbourne, Australia to pursue his dream job has not forgotten the Sarawak Day celebration.
“Working as an executive sous chef, I started my journey in 2019 and it has been three years now.
“I moved to Australia to pursue my dreams of being a Michelin star chef. I wanted to introduce our food to the world which I did and there’s more to come,” he added.
“Being away from hometown, what I’ve missed is the food in Sarawak.
“What connects our people most it’s not social media but it’s the food . That is how unity was born among our people,
“I love Sarawak because of its unique culture, the people, the food, the culture, music and many more.
“I am more than proud to be born a Sarawakian, my message to my fellow Sarawakians who live abroad is no matter how far we go, Sarawak should always be close to our heart, stay united, and most importantly always trust yourself, believe in yourself,” he said.
Nurul Syafina Mellon, 29, who works as a tradesperson in a chocolate factory has been in Melbourne since 2019.
“I moved abroad because my husband got a job opportunity and what I’ve missed the most is my family, friends and of course the food.
“I love Sarawak because of the unity among our people and Sarawak has a very unique culture. I am very proud to be a Sarawakian.
“My message to Sarawakians living abroad is to always keep Sarawak close to your heart, no matter how far we are from home,” she added.
Syamliah Mohd Arif, 18, who studies in Singapore perhaps summed up the importance of the occasion more succinctly.
“We need to remember that Independence Day reminds us of the sacrifices of our elders to free us from colonial rule.
“May Sarawak be a place of wealth, peace and happiness. Other than that, I really hope Sarawak will be a top tourist place to travel to in the future,” she added.
