KUCHING: The prestigious Sarawak state honours ceremony, held on August 15 at the Astana Negeri Sarawak, was a momentous occasion that saw Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian leading the list of 149 distinguished recipients. The honours were conferred by the Head of State, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Ja’afar, in a ceremony that celebrated exceptional contributions to the state.
Dr Sim Kui Hian: The Pinnacle of Honour
The Darjah Utama Yang Amat Mulia Bintang Kenyalang Sarawak
At the forefront of this year’s honours was Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, who was awarded the Darjah Utama Yang Amat Mulia Bintang Kenyalang Sarawak, Datuk Amar Bintang Kenyalang (D.A.). This prestigious accolade is the highest honour in the state, conferred upon individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and service. As the sole recipient of this distinguished award this year, Dr Sim’s contributions as the Minister of Public Health, Housing, and Local Government were duly recognized.
Contributions to Public Health and Local Government
Dr Sim’s dedication to public health and local governance has been instrumental in the development of Sarawak. His leadership has spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at improving healthcare services and local infrastructure. The conferment of this honour underscores his pivotal role in advancing the state’s well-being and progress.
Notable Recipients: Celebrating Excellence
Temenggong Datuk Nunong Dandan
Among the notable recipients was Temenggong Datuk Nunong Dandan, who received the Panglima Setia Bintang Sarawak (P.S.B.S). This honour recognizes individuals for their exceptional services and contributions to the state. Datuk Nunong’s efforts in various capacities have significantly impacted Sarawak’s community and cultural heritage.
Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman
Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman, the Tupong assemblyman, was awarded the Johan Bintang Kenyalang (J.B.K). This honour reflects his commitment to public service and his role in representing the interests of his constituents with dedication and effectiveness.
Honours in Public Administration
Several individuals were recognized for their outstanding contributions in public administration:
- Pegawai Bintang Sarawak (P.B.S): Nine individuals were honoured with this award, acknowledging their exemplary service in various governmental roles.
- Pegawai Bintang Kenyalang (P.B.K): Twenty-three recipients were awarded this honour, celebrating their significant contributions to the state.
Public Administration Medals
The ceremony also included the presentation of Public Administration Medals:
- Pingat Perkhidmatan Bakti (P.P.B): Nineteen individuals were awarded this medal for their dedicated service.
- Ahli Bintang Sarawak (A.B.S): Twenty-one recipients were recognized for their exceptional contributions to the state.
- Pingat Ahli Bintang Kenyalang (A.B.K): Eighteen individuals were honoured with this medal.
Additional Awards
- Pingat Perkhidmatan Terpuji (P.P.T): Awarded to twenty-nine individuals for their commendable service.
- Pingat Bentara Bintang Sarawak (B.B.S): This honour was given to twenty-seven individuals for their significant contributions.
Event Highlights and Attendees
The ceremony was graced by notable figures, including Wan Junaidi’s wife Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi and Dr Sim’s wife Datin Amar Enn Ong Siok Ean. The event was also attended by Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department Datuk Seri John Sikie Tayai and Deputy Minister for Energy and Environmental Sustainability Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni, highlighting the importance of this occasion in the state’s calendar.
A Celebration of Service and Dedication
The Sarawak state honours ceremony not only recognized individuals for their personal achievements but also celebrated their unwavering commitment to the advancement of Sarawak. The diversity of the awards reflects the broad spectrum of contributions made by these distinguished individuals, from public administration to cultural preservation.
The conferred honours serve as a testament to the exceptional dedication and service of the recipients, setting a benchmark for future generations in Sarawak.