KUCHING: The three local councils of Kuching, Kuching South City Council (MBKS), Kuching North City Hall (DBKU), and Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) have come together to co-organise the first-ever 722 Walk in celebration of Sarawak Day, in a landmark show of unity.
MBKS Mayor, Datuk Wee Hong Seng, expressed gratitude to his fellow council leaders and the media for their continued support, describing the collaboration as “a meaningful cooperation that unites not only our communities but our institutions.”
“This 722 Walk is not just a public event. It symbolises our collective pride as Sarawakians and aims to promote unity, health, and historical awareness.
“We may not be the official host city, since the main celebration is in Miri, but Kuching will honour the day with heart and purpose,” he said during a press conference at the MBKS building today.
The 3-kilometre walk will take place on July 22 and will start at the MBKS Boulevard and end at the Kuching Waterfront in DBKU’s jurisdiction.
All participants are encouraged to wear Sarawak-themed colours – red, black, and yellow – or Sarawak batik.
“We’re not just walking for the sake of walking.
“We’re walking for history, heritage, health, hope, and unity,” Wee said.
He highlighted the importance of Sarawak Day, which commemorates the state’s attainment of self-governance on July 22 1963.
Furthermore, DBKU Mayor Datuk Hilmy Othman praised the initiative, calling it a symbol of solidarity and cooperation.
“When Datuk Wee shared his patriotic vision, we rearranged our existing plans to support this event.
“The 722 Walk is not only about commemorating history, but also about promoting a healthy lifestyle and stronger community bonds,” he said.
Hilmy also proposed turning next year’s event into a “722 Run” to elevate the momentum and public engagement.
“Let’s give people a chance to walk first. Maybe next year we can run,” he said.
Additionally, MPP Chairman Councillor Tan Kai shared the same enthusiasm, admitting that he initially had concerns about how best to celebrate Sarawak Day at the community level.
“But when Datuk Wee suggested a joint walk between the three councils, I said yes without hesitation. It’s a perfect way to celebrate our state’s Independence Day.”
He encouraged Sarawakians, especially those overseas, to celebrate in their ways, such as cooking Sarawak laksa or kolok mee.
He also urged businesses and residents to fly the Sarawak flag with pride.
“We call on all Sarawakians: celebrate 722 in your own way. It’s our most important day, and we must cherish it.”
As a conclusion, Wee urged the public to show their love for Sarawak by flying the state flag.
“There’s no law against displaying the Sarawak flag. Let’s flood the city with our colours.
“It’s about love for our state, but about spirit and unity.”
The event is targeting at least 1,000 participants, but is open to everyone regardless of attire or affiliation.
