KUCHING: The legacy of Sarawak’s first Yang di-Pertua Negeri, the late Tun Abang Openg Abang Sapiee, was celebrated through a special theatre production aimed at inspiring younger generations to appreciate the state’s history, leadership and heritage.
A Historical Montage: Tun Openg Theatre – The Beginning of a Legacy, staged by the Kuching Bandarsah Arts Association (PASBK) at the Banquet Hall of the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) building last night (June 6), traced the life, struggles and leadership journey of the late statesman.
Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi attended the performance, alongside Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and his daughter Dayang Nurjihan.
PASBK chairman Abdul Rahman Zainuddin said the production was more than a theatrical performance, describing it as an effort to preserve Sarawak’s historical memory through the arts.
“This theatre production is based on a book written by Suara Sarawak and Sarawak Tribune chief executive officer Datuk Dr Jeniri Amir, with the original idea by Dahiri Saini and adapted and directed by Abdillah Untong,” he said in a statement last night (June 6).
He said the production highlighted the values of resilience, humility, responsibility and sacrifice embodied by Tun Openg during key periods in Sarawak’s history, including the Japanese occupation, political transition and the formation of modern Sarawak.
“It is not merely an artistic performance, but also a tribute to a statesman who exemplified resilience, humility, responsibility and sacrifice for the people,” he said.
He said initiatives that combine history and performing arts are important in strengthening cultural identity while ensuring the contributions of past leaders remain relevant to future generations.
The performance featured original musical compositions by the PASBK Orchestra and Combo under conductor Narawi Rashidi, including Imbauan, Pergilah Patriot and Nafas Perpaduan, while PASBK treasurer Albar Abdul Rahman contributed Namamu Tersergam Indah and Perjuangan Seni.
Abdul Rahman also thanked the Sarawak government, particularly the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, as well as the family of the late Tun Openg, for their support in making the production a reality.
Also present were DUN Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar and his wife Datuk Fatimah Mohd Iskandar, Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah and his wife Datin Seri Zuraini Abdul Jaabar, Deputy Minister Datuk Snowdan Lawan, deputy ministers and other distinguished guests.
