KUCHING: Unity, patriotism and inclusivity will take centre stage at the Sarawak-level National Day 2026 celebration in Kapit, with the event aimed at bringing together people from all walks of life.
Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom said hosting the celebration in Kapit would also give communities in the interior an opportunity to experience the occasion while strengthening a shared sense of belonging.
“Our main concept is unity, to instill the spirit of patriotism and to ensure that the celebration is inclusive. We want people from all walks of life to experience the festivities and be directly involved in the celebration,” he said.
He said this during an interview on the ‘Juh Randau’ programme produced by the Sarawak Public Communications Unit (UKAS) on Thursday (Aug 20).
Dr Rundi said the celebration should also serve as a reminder for Sarawakians to appreciate the peace and political stability enjoyed today.
He called on Sarawakians to join the celebration in Kapit and fly the Jalur Gemilang as an expression of gratitude and love for the country.
“We want the people to realise that the peace we enjoy today is the result of the planning and leadership of those before us. This is something that we must appreciate and preserve together,” he said.
Among the highlights of the celebration will be the ‘Ambang Merdeka’ celebration on Aug 30, which is expected to be attended by Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, as well as state leaders.
Apart from stage performances and a concert featuring local and visiting artistes, the programme will feature a high-tech light show instead of fireworks due to the area’s hilly geographical conditions.
The celebration will continue on Aug 31 with a 1.5-kilometre ‘Unity Walk’, bringing together dignitaries and members of the public.
This will be followed by the National Day gathering, which is expected to draw between 3,000 and 5,000 people.
Local cultural elements will also feature prominently, including pantun performances and Iban pantun synonymous with the Kapit community, providing a platform to showcase the area’s cultural heritage.
The programmes will take place at Kapit Town Square and the grounds of Dewan Suarah Kapit.
