KUCHING: Selamat Hari Sarawak. Today marks the third year of Sarawak Day celebration since its inaugural launch by the last chief minister Pehin Sri Adenan Satem also known affectionately as ‘Tok Nan’ in 2016.
Since then, Sarawak Independence Day celebrates the establishment of self-government and de facto independence on 22 July, 1963 before the formation of the federation of Malaysia.
In tribute to Sarawak Day, the New Sarawak Tribune interviewed a few Sarawakians on their thoughts of how they will celebrate the day.
Nurhadiatul Sukinah Jamali, 30, said Sarawak Day is a declaration that Sarawakians are free even before Sarawak joins the federation of Malaysia.
“Every year on July 22, the celebration gives a new meaning to Sarawakians because on the day Sarawak gains independence from her British colonial masters by earning her right to self-govern.
“As Sarawakians, we should be aware of the past history of our beloved ‘Ibu Pertiwiku’ (motherland) and it is our responsibility to ensure that our future generations continue to safeguard our sovereignty.
“The day also marks the sacrifices of our ancestors to achieve our independence,” she said.
Raziv Ramzon, 28, said that Sarawak Day represents an identity for Sarawakians.
“Although it is our Independence Day, it is not meant to differentiate us with other Malaysians, as Sarawak Day is different in the date and time of our independence.
“I believe that this day will benefit our future generations as well,” he said.
Farah Diyana, 30, said Sarawak Day is not only to celebrate our state’s independence but also being a public holiday when Sarawakians can spend the day together with their families and friends.
“I am actually looking forward to the celebration this year as it is the third year of its celebration. I am sure this year’s Sarawak Day will be special.
“Being celebrated throughout Sarawak, it also helps to unite us,” she said.
