KUCHING: Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, celebrated all those involved in the publication and launch of the coffee-table book Mawar Astana Mekar Di Jiwa at an appreciation ceremony held at Astana Negeri Sarawak on Friday night.
The ceremony, which lasted more than an hour, was held in a warm and cordial atmosphere as a gesture of appreciation for the contributions and commitment of all those involved in documenting and launching the book, which chronicles Fauziah’s journey, experiences and aspects of her life, including the roles she has played in her family, society and Sarawak.
Wan Junaidi and Fauziah also expressed their gratitude to everyone involved in producing the book, particularly those who contributed their ideas, time, effort and creativity throughout the process until its successful launch.
The appreciation also reflected the fact that the publication of a work is not the result of an individual effort alone, but requires teamwork, meticulous attention and the dedication of various parties to bring to life a publication of documentary and historical value.
Published by Astana Negeri Sarawak, the coffee-table book Mawar Astana Mekar Di Jiwa takes readers through various stages of Fauziah’s life, from her childhood and education to her career, involvement in welfare and community activities, and her role alongside the Head of State.
The 267-page book also brings together lesser-known stories from Fauziah’s life, including her sacrifices for her family, her love of learning and her 22-year career as a flight attendant.
The title of the book itself carries a profound meaning, with the rose symbolising beauty, gentleness, elegance and resilience, while the Astana represents the setting of official life that has become part of Fauziah’s journey.
The phrase Mekar Di Jiwa, or “Blooming in the Heart”, reflects the values of love, service and exemplary character that are not only evident throughout her life but continue to flourish in the memories and hearts of those touched by her kindness and contributions.
The book, which was launched on Aug 17, was produced by a team led by Suara Sarawak and Sarawak Tribune chief executive officer Datuk Dr Jeniri Amir and Suara Sarawak executive editor Rohana Wahed, with writers Zarina Abdullah, Natasha Jee, Syamimi Husna and Prisca Robin.
Adding to its significance, Mawar Astana Mekar Di Jiwa has also been published as an interactive e-book featuring audio in both Malay and English. It can be accessed through the official Astana Sarawak website, allowing its contents to reach a wider audience in a device-friendly format.
The publication documents stories that had previously remained behind the official life of Sarawak’s first lady, preserving them for future generations and as part of the historical record of the Astana Negeri Sarawak institution.
The book is also hoped to inspire future generations to understand Fauziah’s life journey, personality and contributions, while illustrating that behind her position and titles lies a long journey shaped by family, education, career, experience, sacrifices and life values.
From her school days and educational journey to her career and later life as the wife of the Head of State, each experience offers a glimpse into the various stages she went through before reaching her position today.
Also present were Sarawak Legislative Assembly Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar and his wife Datuk Fatimah Mohd Iskandar; Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah and her husband Datuk Dr Badiozaman Tuah; as well as other invited guests.
