KUCHING: The Head of State, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, reflected on the nation’s formation and the state’s enduring role in shaping unity, economic growth and global relevance.
In his Malaysia Day 2025 message, he began by honouring September 16, 1963 as a defining date when the Federation of Malaya, Sabah, Sarawak and Singapore united to form Malaysia.
As proclaimed by Tunku Abdul Rahman at Stadium Merdeka and formalised through the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) signed on July 9, 1963, the event ended British colonial rule in Sabah, Sarawak and Singapore.
“This historic event reminds us of the strength that springs from unity, a principle that continues to be the backbone of our nation to this day,” he said.
Although Singapore left the federation in 1965, Wan Junaidi highlighted that the spirit of unity and mutual respect continues to thrive.
He took pride in Sarawak’s more than 70 ethnic groups and diverse faiths and cultures, calling this diversity “a strength that makes Sarawak unique and special.”
He paid tribute to Sarawak’s four signatories of MA63, Tun Datuk Abang Openg Abang Shapiee, Temenggong Tun Jugah Barieng, Tan Sri Ling Beng Siew and Datuk Abang Mustapha Abang Moasli, for their foresight in laying a strong foundation for Sarawak’s future.
Additionally, he said that Sarawak’s multicultural harmony remains a most valuable asset.
He urged citizens to safeguard this legacy, cultivate patriotism and nurture mutual respect to ensure unity.
Malaysia Day 2025 carries the national theme “Malaysia MADANI: Rakyat Disantuni” (Malaysia MADANI: People First), while Sarawak adopts “Sarawak Maju Makmur Dalam Malaysia” (Sarawak Progressive and Prosperous within Malaysia).
Wan Junaidi said these themes reflect the government’s commitment to people-centred growth and balanced governance.
“With the Malaysian MADANI spirit, let us redouble our efforts to drive economic growth, strengthen social stability, and ensure the people’s well-being is always safeguarded,” he added.
He also highlighted Sarawak’s economic transformation under Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr Abang Johari Tun Abang Openg.
The state is moving from traditional reliance on oil, gas and palm oil to a diversified economy anchored by manufacturing and information technology.
The Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE) is central to this shift, attracting investments in hydropower and solar energy.
“SCORE not only provides a stable energy supply but also creates new job opportunities for the people of Sarawak,” he said.
Wan Junaidi credited Sarawak’s progress to wise and visionary leadership that has planned and implemented well-structured development over the years.
He likened good governance to steering a ship.
“Just as a ship requires a knowledgeable captain and skilled crew, leadership demands unity and teamwork.
“Through consensus and collaboration, obstacles can be overcome and direction maintained,” he said.
Wan Junaidi concluded by calling on Sarawakians to stand shoulder to shoulder, work diligently, and contribute to the development of both state and nation, ensuring Sarawak continues to shine as a model of harmony and progress not only within Malaysia but also on the world stage.
