LINGGA: A heritage manuscript highlighting early governance systems was symbolically handed over at Masjid Al-Hana Lingga Mosque’s hall on Sunday (April 3).
The Head of State, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, accompanied by his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, officiated at the handover ceremony of the Lingga-Banting Manuscript during a visit held in conjunction with the second and final day of the Kembara D’ Astana Programme.
During the event, the couple toured a mini exhibition showcasing manuscripts and historical artefacts related to the Lingga-Banting heritage, including the Banting-Lingga Code Manuscript, which reflects the legal and governance systems of earlier communities, along with historical documents, genealogies, and traditional weapons of significant historical value.
They also watched a special video presentation titled “Jejak Waris Syarif Akil Kerajaan Banting-Lingga” before symbolically receiving the Lingga-Banting Code Manuscript from former Temenggong of Lingga, Bohari Abang Zain, representing the heirs.
The couple also expressed their highest appreciation for the handover of the manuscript and heritage materials, describing them as important historical treasures, and extended their gratitude to researchers and all parties involved in making the programme a success.
At the same ceremony, Wan Junaidi presented a RM20,000 contribution to Al-Hana Lingga Mosque, handed over to Temenggong Mohamad Shah Achang.
Following the event, they departed for Kuching aboard the Damai Princess via the Batang Lupar River.
Meanwhile, Lingga assemblywoman Dayang Hajah Noorazah Awang Sohor expressed appreciation in her welcoming speech for the presence of Wan Junaidi and his wife, describing it as deeply meaningful to the local community, while also highlighting the sentimental value of Lingga, Sebuyau, and Triso to the Head of State.
Among those present were the couple’s daughters, Sharifah Fariah and Sharifah Nong-Jasima, along with the latter’s husband, Muhammad Nur Hakeem Yusop; Adviser at the Sarawak Premier’s Office Datuk Amar Jaul Samion; Bukit Begunan assemblyman Datuk Mong Dagang; Sri Aman Division Resident Mahra Salleh; Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Sarawak Branch Rector Professor Dr Firdaus Abdullah; Amanah Khairat Yayasan Budaya Melayu Sarawak general manager Datuk Dr Sanib Said; Lingga District Officer Frank Lani; as well as senior government officials and community leaders.
