KUCHING: Palm Sunday holds a special place in the hearts of many – it is a time for reflection, unity and spiritual renewal.
Marking the beginning of Holy Week, the holiday is traditionally celebrated with church services, the blessing and distribution of palm leaves, and family traditions passed down through the generations.
In Sarawak, where cultural and spiritual practices often go hand in hand, many individuals take this time to pause, connect with their faith, and find meaning in symbolic rituals that extend beyond the walls of the church.
While everyone may celebrate Palm Sunday in different ways, their sharing reflects a common goal.
From simple practices to communal gatherings, the holiday remains an important time to slow down, express gratitude, and hold on to values that inspire resilience and peace in everyday life.
Several young Sarawakians share what Palm Sunday means to them personally and how they continue to keep the tradition alive in their daily lives.
NATALIE HASCHINTA NABAU, 24,
Intern at CENTEXS, Roman Catholic
“Palm Sunday is a deeply reflective day for me. It makes me think about the courage to face challenges even when the outcome is uncertain. Each year, I attend the Palm Sunday Mass and join the procession at St Joseph’s Cathedral. One of my most memorable moments was watching the procession come down from St Peter’s College. At home, we place blessed palm leaves and place them each in our rooms. It’s a small but meaningful tradition that keeps us grounded.”
NICHOLSON RYAN NABAU, 21,
Volunteer at Petrosains, Roman Catholic
“To me, Palm Sunday is a reminder to stay humble. I usually go to church with my family at St Joseph’s Cathedral, take part in the procession, receive the blessed palm, and reflect during the Mass. There’s a calm and unified atmosphere during the service. I personally fold mine into a small cross and keep it on my car dashboard. It’s simple, but it helps us stay reminded of our faith.”
LIRIEK JAMIE LIRONG YU ABIT, 24,
Intern at SDEC, Roman Catholic
“This year’s Palm Sunday feels especially meaningful to me as it comes just before my baptism. It will be my first time observing it fully. I grew up seeing my mom collect palm leaves from a tree planted by my late grandmother – it’s become a special part of our family tradition. For me, Palm Sunday is a reminder to stay grounded even when we’re celebrated or praised. It’s a chance to reflect on how we carry ourselves and how we can bring peace to the spaces we’re in.”
GILBERTSON RANDY DUBLIN, 27, Staff at Hospital Tengku Ampuan Rahimah, Anglican
“Palm Sunday reminds me of the balance between joy and responsibility. I usually attend church where palm branches are given out, and it’s always a peaceful start to Holy Week. Sometimes we shape the palms into crosses and keep them at home throughout the year. It’s a quiet reminder that strength often comes through peace and humility.”
JOEANNE BEATRIZ TINGGAU JOE, 24,
Part-time Teacher, Anglican
“It’s the beginning of a meaningful week for me. I attend church services with my family, where we receive and bless palm fronds, join processions, and sing hymns. At home, we place the palms around our living spaces for protection and as a symbol of devotion. Palm Sunday encourages us to reflect on what really matters – faith, compassion, and inner peace.”
