KUCHING: Up to 10,000 people are expected to attend Sarawak Governor Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar's 80th birthday parade here on Saturday (Oct 10).
State Utility and Telecommunication Minister Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi said Sarawakians from all races and backgrounds were welcome to celebrate the Governor's birthday.
He said the celebration is a significant occasion because the Yang di-Pertua Negeri is a symbol of unity for Sarawakians who comprise various races, faiths and cultures.
"We expect 5,000 to 10,000 people to be present, the more the merrier.
"I hope to see a large crowd of city folk from every race attending the celebration.
"And I believe even those from outside Kuching will come because they can now travel here on the Pan Borneo Highway or coastal road," he told reporters after attending a full-dress rehearsal of the parade at Padang Merdeka here on Thursday (Oct 8).
Julaihi, who is the minister in charge of the celebration, said preparations were going smoothly for a grand event on Saturday.
"The rehearsal went well and it looks like all the contingents are ready," he said, adding that police and Armed Forces personnel would ensure security during the celebration.
The parade will feature 107 contingents from government ministries and departments, state-owned enterprises, local authorities, higher learning institutions, cultural associations and security forces, with about 4,400 participants in total.
Personnel from the 20th Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment will mount a guard of honour, accompanied by the police band.
There will also be cultural performances and a video of birthday greetings for the Governor.
A concert will take place at Padang Merdeka at night, ending with a fireworks display.
