SIBU: The younger generation is reminded not only to inherit the land and wealth of this state, but also to inherit the spirit of struggle, unity and drive to achieve excellence that are the foundation of Sarawak’s strength today.
The call was made by Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) Senior Vice-President, Datuk Seri Wong Soon Koh, when delivering his speech in conjunction with the Sarawak Day celebration organised by PDP Bawang Assan at a leading hotel here over a luncheon today.
“To the younger generation, I urge you: know your history. Be proud of your origins. But more than that, take responsibility to take Sarawak forward.
“Don’t just inherit this land – inherit the spirit of struggle, the spirit of unity, and the drive to achieve excellence,” he said in front of about 1,000 attendees.
The ceremony was also attended by top PDP leaders, tribal leaders, community leaders, and 105 headmen in the Bawang Assan constituency.
The Bawang Assan Assemblyman said Sarawak Day, which is celebrated on July 22 every year, is not just a public holiday, but an important day to commemorate the historic moment when Sarawak achieved self-rule from the British in 1963.
“It is a time for us to reflect on the sacrifices of those who came before us – the leaders and ordinary people who have worked hard to build this state with pride and determination,” he said.
Apart from that, Wong also said Sarawak has special rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), and the people of this state must continue to defend those rights, including in determining development priorities and managing state revenue.
He also praised the leadership of the late Pehin Sri Adenan Satem, who inspired Sarawak, and Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, who continued the struggle through clear policies, strategies and roadmaps.
“We must realise that the late Adenan inspired Sarawak, and Abang Johari translated that spirit into policies and political commitments to be institutionalised and implemented for progress through economic empowerment, assertion of legal rights, and strategic planning for the future.
“Abang Johari has shaped Sarawak’s position in Malaysia as a firm and far-sighted leader – from ‘I am a Malaysian, I am a Sarawakian’ to ‘Sarawak First, Sarawakian First’,” he said.
He also emphasised the strength of unity in diversity, which is a special feature of Sarawak, inhabited by multi-ethnic communities such as the Iban, Chinese, Malay, Melanau, Bidayuh, and Orang Ulu.
Therefore, he called on the people of Sarawak to continue to unite and work together for the progress of the state.
“Let us stand together, work together, and move forward with confidence as proud and committed Sarawakians,” Wong added.
The ceremony also witnessed the presentation of certificates of reappointment to 12 community leaders, including a penghulu in the Batang Igan area.
Among those present were Meluan Assemblyman, Rolland Duat Jubin; Krian Assemblyman, Friday Belik; Engkilili Assemblyman, Dr Johnical Rayong Ngipa; Sibu Resident, Mohamad Porkan Budiman; PDP Bawang Assan Chairman, Cr Wong Hua; Temenggong Datuk Vincent Lau Lee Ming; Temenggong Datuk Wan Hamid Edruce; Temenggong Stanley Geramong Bandar; Sibu District Officer, Wee Teck Min; and Matu District Officer, Hamidah Haipi.
