KUCHING: The atmosphere at Raia Hotel and Convention Centre this morning was filled with a sense of solemnity and blessings during the ‘doa selamat’ ceremony held in conjunction with the departure of the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, and his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, as well as their entourage, to perform the haj pilgrimage in the holy land.
Tun Wan Junaidi and his wife arrived at about 10:10 am and were welcomed by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, who spent time together with the state leadership in praying for a smooth journey and for them to be blessed with a mabrur haj.
Also present at the ceremony were Deputy Premiers, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan.
Among those in attendance were Sarawak Legislative Assembly Speaker, Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar, and Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, who served as the accompanying minister, as well as other state leaders.
The presence of Sarawak Tribune and Suara Sarawak (STSS) Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Dr Jeniri Amir, together with members of the media and heads of departments, further enlivened the blessed gathering.
The ceremony also saw Wan Junaidi and his wife graciously commenced the luncheon at 10:30 am alongside distinguished guests, with a variety of traditional and modern dishes served.
The event’s atmosphere was relaxed yet orderly, while the echoes of the talbiah resonated throughout the hall during the programme, which concluded with a greeting session and prayers, leaving fond memories among those present.
The departure of Wan Junaidi and his entourage was also accompanied by the prayers of the people of Sarawak, wishing them good health, safety and a blessed mabrur haj.
