‘(This tour) provides an opportunity to build a new bridge where there is no river. The bridge is a bridge of friendship. My presence, and that of my family, my entourage, is as if representing part of the people in the Peninsula.’
— Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah
The recently concluded Kembara Kenali Borneo, inspired by Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, will forever be etched in the history and collective memory of Sarawak. Al-Sultan Abdullah, accompanied by the Raja Permaisuri Agong, Tunku Azizah Maimunah Iskandariah, and their children, embarked on this historic road tour along the Pan Borneo Highway, culminating at KM0 in Telok Melano, Lundu in Kuching.
Covering a total of 2,154 kilometres, the tour turned out to be a momentous occasion that transcended time and tradition, leaving a lasting impression destined to be spoken of for generations to come.
The Royal convoy embarked on an 11-day journey from Tawau in Sabah to Sarawak, starting on September 3 and ending on September 13. Notably, this marked the first time that Al-Sultan Abdullah, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and Malay ruler, traveled by road from Sabah to Sarawak, passing through Brunei Darussalam.
During the journey, the King personally drove for 85 hours, covering a distance of 2,192 kilometers. There was only a brief hour when his son took over before reaching Kuching. In Sarawak alone, His Majesty and the entire entourage traveled 1,194 kilometers, requiring 15 hours from Lawas.
From the moment of their arrival, Their Majesties aimed to create an unforgettable experience for everyone. They graciously engaged with the people, exuding warmth and humility. As they stepped onto the streets of Sarawak, an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation permeated the air.
At various scheduled stops, such as Tebingan Lawas, Miri Handicraft Centre, Coco Cabana Miri, Kampung Pangkalan Lutong, Bungai Beach in Bekenu, Kampung Penan Muslim Batu 10, Raymond Plen longhouse, Sg Gelam, Sebauh, Yu Lung Tian En Si in Sibu, Kampung Bandung Sibu, and Sibu Central Market, they chose to walk among and mingle with the people.
The crowd that welcomed them showcased our people’s deep respect and affection for our beloved monarchs. The atmosphere buzzed with waving flags and smiling faces as Their Majesties engaged in heartfelt conversations, leaving a lasting impression everywhere they went.
Even Al-Sultan Abdullah described the receptions as overwhelming and beyond their expectations. Watching Their Majesties and their children connect with people from different backgrounds was truly captivating. Their down-to-earth nature and genuine demeanor endeared them to Sarawakians, as they immersed themselves in the essence of the region.
Beneath the grandeur and opulence associated with royalty, this visit revealed a different side to these dignitaries.
The captivating moment that enthralled everyone was their spontaneous dance to the rhythm of Sarawakian music, infectiously spreading laughter and enthusiasm, uniting all present in a joyous celebration of shared heritage.
Throughout their journey, these humble moments were not isolated incidents but a consistent theme. One such moment perfectly captured the essence of their journey — a spontaneous roadside stop to savor ‘nasi bungkus’ from a humble stall.
Al-Sultan Abdullah, accompanied by his sons, Regent of Pahang Tengku Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah and Tengku Panglima Raja Colonel Tengku Amir Nasser Ibrahim Shah, made an unscheduled stop at Sebangkoi along the Sarikei-Sri Aman Road to enjoy ‘nasi bungkus’ on their way from Sarikei to Kuching on Tuesday.
Photographs and videos of them with the ‘nasi bungkus,’ purchased from Hamidi Fikri, who hails from Their Majesties’ home state of Pahang but now resides in Sarikei, went viral on social media.
Their Majesties’ genuine interest in our culture and tradition was heartwarming, leaving an indelible mark on all who met them. The Royal convoy visited development projects, showcasing the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure and people’s lives. This includes the Pan Borneo Highway, enhancing connectivity and promoting economic development in Sabah and Sarawak.
The Kembara Kenali Borneo provided an opportunity for the King to engage with the people, listening to their concerns and aspirations. He expressed his desire to understand local challenges and pledged to address them to the best of his abilities.
The visit unified the people of Sabah and Sarawak, fostering pride and emphasizing the importance of national unity. It highlighted the ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between different regions of Malaysia.
The Kembara Kenali Borneo had a positive impact on local communities and garnered significant media coverage, both domestically and internationally. The event showcased Borneo’s stunning landscapes, cultural diversity, and warm hospitality to the world.
Overall, it was a historic occasion that brought joy and inspiration to the people of Sabah and Sarawak, strengthening the bond between the King and the people, promoting unity, and highlighting the region’s potential for development and progress. The memories of this extraordinary journey will continue to resonate, reminding us to embrace our heritage and work together for a brighter future.
‘I, representing the Malay Rulers, am extending my arms to all as one Malaysian family in our beloved country. I am truly touched by the warm welcome and only God can repay your kindness.’
— Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the New Sarawak Tribune.
