KUCHING: Sarawak will mark the 79th birthday celebration of the Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar with a series of events from Oct 9 to 12, highlighting unity, gratitude, and appreciation for his service to the people.
Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, who chairs the celebration committee, said the annual observance represents the highest official state event that brings together leaders and citizens across Sarawak in a shared spirit of harmony.
“This celebration goes beyond ceremonial. It is a gesture of loyalty and joy from the government and the people of Sarawak to our Head of State.
“Through it, we express our gratitude and unity as one Sarawak family,” he said during a Juh Randau special edition interview by the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS).
The four-day celebration begins on Oct 9 with a Majlis Kesyukuran at Masjid Jamek Kuching, followed by a multi-faith thanksgiving ceremony coordinated by UNIFOR on Oct 10 at the Imperial Hotel.
For the first time, Wan Junaidi is expected to attend both events, symbolising Sarawak’s commitment to interfaith understanding.
The Istiadat Perbarisan dan Rapat Raksasa, which is the main highlight, will take place on Oct 11 at Padang Merdeka, Kuching, featuring more than 100 contingents from government departments, agencies, and community organisations.
This will be followed by the investiture ceremony at Astana Negeri Sarawak, where state honours and medals will be presented to distinguished individuals in recognition of their contributions to Sarawak.
The Santapan Negeri and Majlis Jamuan Negeri will be hosted at the State Legislative Assembly Banquet Hall in the evening, followed by the cutting of the birthday cake and a grand fireworks display.
A Konsert Rakyat will also be held simultaneously at Padang Merdeka, featuring local and national artists, to allow the public to join in the festivities.
The celebration will conclude on Oct 12 with a Majlis Jamuan Teh at Riverside Majestic Hotel, Wan Junaidi and Toh Puan Datuk Seri Fauziah Mohd Sanusi will present contributions to orphans, youths, and underprivileged recipients with a total of 150 beneficiaries this year.
Abdul Karim hoped the celebration will continue to reflect Sarawak’s social harmony and multicultural spirit.
“Despite our diverse backgrounds, Sarawakians always come together in respect and unity. This celebration is a living symbol of our peace and prosperity,” he said.
