SIBU: Sarawak Day is more than a commemoration of the state’s journey towards self-governance but symbolises the confidence of Sarawakians to determine their own future and build a prosperous, innovation-driven economy, says Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said the annual celebration should inspire the people to continue transforming Sarawak into a modern, developed and respected region within the Federation of Malaysia.
“Since 2016, Sarawakians from all walks of life have commemorated July 22 as Sarawak Day. The date carries profound significance because it marks the historic moment in 1963 when the responsibility of administering Sarawak was entrusted to Sarawakians themselves.
“However, Sarawak Day is not merely about remembering history. More importantly, it symbolises the confidence of the people of Sarawak that we are capable of determining our own future, building our own economic strength, and standing as a developed and respected region within the Federation of Malaysia,” he said in his speech during the Sarawak Day Assembly 2026 held at Dataran Tun Tuanku Haji Bujang here on Wednesday (July 22), officiated by Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar.
He said Sarawak had undergone remarkable transformation from a region once faced with major challenges in infrastructure, education and economic development.
According to him, the progress achieved today was the result of sustained efforts by the people, visionary leadership and carefully planned long-term development policies.
“Today, we no longer see Sarawak merely as a region rich in natural resources, but as one that is building an economy driven by innovation, technology, clean energy and human capital,” he said.
Earlier, Abang Johari said it was fitting that this year’s Sarawak Day Assembly was held in Sibu, describing the town as one with a special place in the state’s development history.
He said Sibu symbolised the industrious spirit, entrepreneurship and resilience of its people, particularly the Foochow community, who played a significant role in developing the town through agriculture, trade and the timber industry.
Abang Johari also paid tribute to Sarawak’s freedom fighters, including the late Rosli Dhoby, Morshidi Sidek, Awang Rambli Deli and Bujang Suntong, for their courage in defending the dignity and interests of the state.
“I hope the courage, sacrifice and love for Sarawak demonstrated by our past heroes will continue to inspire today’s generation to transform the Land of the Hornbills into a new economic powerhouse in Malaysia and the region,” he said.
