SIBU: Sarawak Day is more than a commemoration of the historic events of July 22, 1963. It is a reminder of the state’s shared journey in building a homeland founded on unity, mutual respect and collective responsibility, says Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said the occasion also celebrates the identity of Sarawakians and reaffirms their commitment to ensuring the state continues to progress in peace, stability and harmony.
“As we celebrate Sarawak Day, we are not only commemorating our history. We are celebrating who we are as a people. We celebrate the values that unite us, and we renew our commitment to ensuring that Sarawak continues to progress in peace, stability and harmony.
“I firmly believe that as long as we continue to uphold mutual respect, inclusiveness and the spirit of Segulai Sejalai, there is no limit to what Sarawak can achieve. Together, we rise. Together, we prosper. Together, we build a stronger Sarawak,” he said at the Thanksgiving Ceremony of Other Religions, held in conjunction with the Sarawak Day Celebration 2026 here last night (July 20).
The Premier’s speech was read out by his representative, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.
Abang Johari said Sarawak has always been shaped by its diverse communities, including the Malays, Melanaus, Dayaks, Chinese, Orang Ulu, Indians and many others, while different faiths have flourished side by side for generations.
He noted that churches, temples, gurdwaras, prayer halls and other places of worship had long coexisted peacefully, reflecting the state’s unique culture of harmony.
“For this reason, Sarawak Day would never be complete without occasions such as tonight, where people from different faiths come together in thanksgiving,” he added.
Touching on this year’s Sarawak Day theme, “Sarawak Maju Makmur”, the Premier said genuine progress should not be measured solely by economic growth or physical development.
Instead, he said true prosperity is achieved when people live peacefully, opportunities are shared fairly and social harmony continues to flourish.
“Prosperity without unity is fragile. Development without harmony is incomplete,” he said.
Abang Johari stressed that the Sarawak government remained committed to ensuring every development agenda was inclusive, equitable and people-centred so that all Sarawakians, whether in urban or rural areas, could benefit from the state’s development.
“No one will be left behind,” he said.
He also said Sarawak was increasingly recognised nationally and internationally as an example of “Unity in Diversity”, where people of different races, religions, languages and cultures not only coexist peacefully but genuinely live as one community.
However, he stressed that such harmony had not happened by chance but had been carefully nurtured over generations through mutual respect, close community ties and a willingness to embrace diversity.
“This is what I call the Sarawak Formula: Trust, Moderation, and Mutual Respect. These are the values we must continue to preserve, especially at a time when the world is increasingly challenged by hatred, extremism and social polarisation,” he said.
The Sarawak Day celebration is centred in Sibu this year from July 20 to 22.
