KUCHING: The 80th birthday of Head of State,Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, was celebrated in an atmosphere of joy and warmth by his immediate family and the leadership of the Sarawak government.
The dinner celebration took place aboard The Royal Kuching River Cruise, set against the scenic panorama of the Kuching Waterfront and its surrounding areas on Sunday night (Feb 1).
The evening was graced by the presence of his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi.
The dinner also commemorated the second anniversary of Wan Junaidi’s appointment as the Head of State.
Also present was Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg who was accompanied by his daughter Dayang Nurjihan.
Others included Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian; the Speaker of the State Legislative Assembly, Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nasar; Ministers and Deputy Ministers; the State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohd Abu Bakar Marzuki; as well as heads of departments and agencies, corporate representatives, and friends, accompanied by their spouses.
A highlight of the evening was the illumination of the Darul Hana Bridge with a special display commemorating Wan Junaidi’s 80th birthday, followed by a choreographed musical fountain performance along the Kuching Waterfront.
A similar visual tribute was later featured on the Satok Suspension Bridge, symbolising appreciation for his lifelong service and contributions to the state.
The celebration continued with a cake-cutting ceremony for Wan Junaidi, accompanied by Fauziah, family members and guests.
In a meaningful gesture, the Premier was also presented with pulut kuning in recognition of his nine years of leadership in Sarawak.
The evening also coincided with the birthday of the Minister for Women, Early Childhood and Community Well-being Development, Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah, adding to the spirit of the celebration.
One of the most meaningful moments of the night was a special gift from Fauziah to Wan Junaidi, a poem titled “Di Hadapan Semua, Aku Memilih Namamu”, composed especially for the occasion, expressing love, appreciation and their enduring bond.
The programme included the screening of a commemorative video highlighting Wan Junaidi’s life and distinguished career, tracing his journey from police officer and lawyer to Member of Parliament, Minister, Deputy Speaker of the Dewan Rakyat, President of the Dewan Negara, and ultimately his appointment as the eighth Sarawak Head of State.
