KUCHING: Sarawakians must remain united and work together with the government and private sector to build a brighter future for the state, says Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar.
The Sarawak Yang di-Pertua Negeri said Sarawak's economy had shown strong resilience post-pandemic and was ready to soar at the global level in green energy and the digital sector.
"This progress would not have happened without close cooperation between the government, people and the private sector.
"The government provides policies and infrastructure, the private sector drives investment, and the people support development aspirations," he said in his Sarawak Day message on Monday (July 21).
Sarawak Day, which falls on July 22, commemorates the state's attainment of self-government from the British in 1963.
It was declared a state public holiday by the late chief minister Tan Sri Adenan Satem in 2016.
Wan Junaidi said July 22, 1963 was a significant date for Sarawakians as the British handed over the state's administration to the first chief minister Tan Sri Stephen Kalong Ningkan and his cabinet.
He said this was an important initial step in Sarawak's preparation to form Malaysia with Sabah, Singapore and Malaysia.
"The handover of power occurred before Sarawak officially became part of Malaysia on Sept 16, 1963.
"It marked the beginning of Sarawak's identity as a sovereign state within Malaysia," he said.
Wan Junaidi paid tribute to the state's early leaders who played a vital role in self-administration, including Ningkan and second chief minister Datuk Seri Tawi Sli.
He also expressed appreciation for former chief ministers Tun Abdul Rahman Ya'kub, Tun Abdul Taib Mahmud and Adenan for their contributions to Sarawak's development.
"Similarly, current Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg is propelling the state towards greater heights through the post-Covid development strategy, focusing on digital economy, renewable energy, education and innovation," he said.
Wan Junaidi also urged Sarawakians to preserve their unity and harmony as the foundation of the state's stability and progress.
"May Sarawak Day 2025 increase our love for the state and motivate us to keep moving forward in confidence and unity," he added.
