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KUCHING, October 13 – A kaleidoscope of colors, sounds, and jubilant faces filled Padang Merdeka today as Sarawak celebrated the 78th birthday of the Head of State, Tun Pehin Sri Dr. Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar. The grand event, which marked Wan Junaidi’s first official birthday celebration as Sarawak’s Head of State, kicked off at 8am with a formal parade and a series of exciting performances that brought together diverse communities and cultures of Sarawak.
The celebration began with a solemn inspection of the main guard of honour by Wan Junaidi, symbolizing a tradition that underscores respect for the state’s leadership. The atmosphere was further charged with anticipation as the sound of 17 cannon shots reverberated across the field, a ceremonial tribute to the Head of State’s official birthday.
Accompanied by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, Wan Junaidi took a military jeep ride around the field, greeting the 78 contingents assembled to represent various sectors of the state. Ministries, government departments, uniformed bodies, corporations, non-governmental organizations, and local associations joined the procession, proudly showcasing Sarawak’s unity and diversity.
A Tribute to Sarawak’s Leadership and Heritage
The parade opened with a prayer, followed by a speech from Abang Johari, who expressed his deep appreciation and admiration for Wan Junaidi’s commitment to Sarawak. His speech was a heartfelt tribute to the Head of State, highlighting his leadership and the pivotal role he plays in uniting the people of Sarawak.
In a symbolic gesture of celebration, a birthday cake-cutting ceremony took place. The festive spirit continued with the screening of the “Aspirasi Rakyat” video, which showcased the hopes and aspirations of Sarawakians under the stewardship of Wan Junaidi.
Cultural Showcases and Star Performances
The entertainment segment was a vivid display of Sarawak’s rich cultural heritage. Among the highlights was a stirring rendition of “Dirgahayu,” performed by 50 students, which reverberated across Padang Merdeka, inspiring pride among the attendees. This was followed by a nostalgic musical performance by renowned local artists Dayang Nurfaizah and Bob Yusof, who delighted the crowd with a medley of popular hits from the 1960s.
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An audience favorite, the Rampaian Etnik Kreatif, saw 100 performers presenting a creative ethnic showcase that celebrated Sarawak’s multicultural fabric. Traditional dances, vibrant costumes, and mesmerizing music painted a picture of the cultural diversity that is the heart of Sarawak. This part of the celebration served as a reminder of the state’s heritage and the importance of preserving it for future generations.
Notable Guests and Dignitaries
The celebration was graced by the presence of prominent figures, including Wan Junaidi’s wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, and Abang Johari’s wife, Puan Sri Datuk Amar Juma’ani Tun Tuanku Bujang. Also in attendance were Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, and Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.
Minister of Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, who served as the celebration’s Minister-in-Charge, was also present, alongside Sarawak State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki and various Sarawak Cabinet Ministers and Deputy Ministers. Their presence underscored the event’s significance, both as a state occasion and as a celebration of Sarawak’s spirit of unity and progress.
A Four-Day Celebration of Sarawak’s Legacy
The TYT’s birthday celebration was not limited to the grand parade. The Protocol, Ceremonies, and Event Management Unit of Sarawak (UPPANS) orchestrated a series of events across Kuching from October 10 to October 13. The four-day celebration included a thanksgiving prayer, a special sermon, an interfaith thanksgiving ceremony, the grand parade, an investiture ceremony for state honours, a state banquet, and a tea reception.
These events were meticulously planned to reflect Sarawak’s unique blend of tradition and modernity, while fostering a sense of unity and togetherness among Sarawakians. The celebrations provided an opportunity for Sarawakians of all backgrounds to come together in a shared expression of gratitude and respect for their Head of State and the legacy he represents.
Looking Forward with Hope and Aspiration
As the celebrations concluded, the spirit of unity and pride lingered in the air. Wan Junaidi’s first official birthday celebration as Head of State marks a new chapter in Sarawak’s journey, one that promises continued development and prosperity. The occasion served as a powerful reminder of the values that Sarawakians hold dear – unity, cultural diversity, and a deep respect for tradition.
The grand parade and the vibrant performances reflected the people’s hopes for a bright future under Wan Junaidi’s leadership, with a renewed commitment to fostering harmony among Sarawak’s diverse communities. As Sarawak continues to forge ahead, the celebrations serve as a reminder of the state’s rich heritage and the shared aspirations that unite its people.
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