KUCHING: Sarawak Day is celebrated not only to recognise the contributions of previous generations but to inspire Sarawakians to keep driving the state forward, says Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar.
The Sarawak Governor said the state had made great strides over the past six decades, but development efforts remain ongoing for the people's continued wellbeing.
"Initiatives such as building rural road networks to overcome vast geographical challenges, enhancing food security, developing a digital economy and constructing modern schools and health clinics in remote areas will ensure that Sarawak's development is truly inclusive," he said in his Sarawak Day message on Tuesday (July 21).
Sarawak Day, which falls on Wednesday (July 22), commemorates the state's attainment of self-government from the British on July 22, 1963, ahead of Malaysia's formation on Sept 16 the same year.
It was declared a state public holiday by the late chief minister Tan Sri Adenan Satem in 2016.
Wan Junaidi also said Sarawak Day is a platform to educate the younger generation about the significance of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
"The celebration emphasises Sarawak's status as not merely another state but as a region and equal partner in forming Malaysia, as stated in the Constitution and MA63," he said.
He added that Sarawak Day symbolised the state's endeavour to uphold its dignity and identity in becoming an advanced region within Malaysia.
"May Sarawak continue to progress and prosper as a peaceful and harmonious region. Let us honour the past, celebrate the present and build a brighter future together," he concluded.
