WHAT does it really mean to be Sarawakian? Is it the harmony of many cultures, the pride in shared history, or simply the feeling of home? Ahead of Sarawak Day, our writer asked Sarawakians from different walks of life what this day — and their identity — means to them, and how they choose to celebrate it.
1.Sofea Sim, Chinese-Melanau
To me, being Sarawakian means living in harmony among diverse cultures, embracing differences with pride and mutual respect. I’m of Chinese and Melanau descent, living in Kuching, and married to a Sarawak Malay-Indian man whose ancestors came from Malacca and India.
Our children, with their rich blend of heritage, truly represent the spirit of Sarawak: diverse, united, and uniquely beautiful.
We celebrate Sarawak Day by proudly hanging the Sarawak flag and sharing with our kids the story of how Sarawak became self-governing and why it matters to our people. It’s important for them to understand and appreciate their roots.
A small gathering with family and friends adds warmth and joy to the day. For us, Sarawak Day is more than just a holiday — it’s a celebration of identity, unity, and the rich cultural tapestry that makes Sarawak home.
2.Salyndra Anyta Stephen, Penan
Being Sarawakian means having a strong sense of cultural identity rooted in our state’s many ethnic groups, languages, and traditions. We live in harmony, respecting each other’s cultures.
It’s also about enjoying the unique flavours and dishes that Sarawak is known for.
How do I celebrate Sarawak Day? I usually join major events that promote the state’s culture and history.
3.Ruidd Zurich Parang, Iban
To be a Sarawakian means embracing a unique identity shaped by cultural diversity, unity, and pride in our heritage.
We come from many ethnic backgrounds — Dayak, Malay, Chinese, Melanau, and Orang Ulu — each with unique customs, languages, and traditions. Our rich culture shines through traditional dances like the ngajat, music from the sape’, and dishes such as Sarawak Laksa and umai.
Sarawak Day, celebrated on July 22, marks the day we gained self-governance from British rule in 1963. On this day, Sarawakians reflect on our shared history through cultural performances, flag-raising ceremonies, and traditional clothing.
Many enjoy local food, join community events, or share patriotic messages online. It’s a day that reminds us of our unity in diversity and the pride of being Sarawakian.
4.Gabriel Elser Cillie, Orang Ulu
To be Sarawakian is to carry diversity in our hearts, heritage in our veins, and unity as our pride. Here in Sarawak, we come from different ethnicities, languages, and religions — yet we coexist peacefully. That is what makes us who we are.
Celebrating Sarawak Day with family and friends is a must. Sharing traditional food and drinks during these gatherings makes the day even more special.
And as we say, “agi idup agi ngelaban” — as long as we live, we keep fighting on. Happy Sarawak Day!
5.Ealsy Augustine, Bidayuh
Being Sarawakian means being a Malaysian citizen who is a native or an inhabitant of Sarawak, a state rich in culture and history.
I celebrate Sarawak Day by raising the Sarawak flag and joining parades and cultural performances in towns and cities. These events feature traditional attire, music, and dances that represent the different ethnic groups of Sarawak.
6.Azim Ismail, Malay-Indian
To be Sarawakian is to love and serve Ibu Pertiwi, no matter how big or small our actions or roles may be. It’s about unity in diversity — living peacefully among cultures, respecting one another, and carrying ourselves with pride.
More than that, it means rejecting anything that could lead our Motherland into disunity, conflict, or disgrace. Simply said: “Jangan berik malu Sarawak.”
To me, Sarawak Day is more than just a public holiday. It’s a time to reflect, reconnect, and rediscover.
I usually celebrate by exploring somewhere new within Sarawak — this year, it’s a hike to Mount Matang Sri Maha Mariamman Temple. Last year, it was a visit to the Borneo Cultures Museum.
Each journey reminds me how rich, beautiful, and unique our state is. Being Sarawakian isn’t just about where you’re born — it’s about what you do for Ibu Pertiwi and for those who call this land home. Every effort matters.
