KUCHING: SARAWAK celebrated its 51st anniversary of independence from British rule yesterday, but unlike last year’s pomp and pageantry, the celebration this year was less grand in view of the fasting month.
With most outdoor activities put on hold, the occasion was celebrated on a smaller scale.
Twenty members from the Sarawak Malay Graduates Association (SMGA) re-enacted the final days of British rule at the Kuching Waterfront, where governor Sir Alexander Waddell crossed Sungai Sarawak in a sampan to Square Tower, where he handed over the nation’s administration to first chief minister Tan Sri Stephen Kalong Ningkan.
SMGA chairman Sanib Said said July 22 should be remembered and celebrated by Sarawakians regardless of their race or political affiliations.
“This is an important day for us and Sarawakians must faithfully observe it.
“We should never allow any outsiders to hijack this event for political gains.”
Sarawak enjoyed its sovereignty as a new nation for 55 days before being part of the Malaysian Federation on Sept 16 in the same year.
Sanib said the purpose of re-enacting the event was to spread the message and educate the younger generation on the significance of the date.
“We respect the Malaysian Federation and we also love our state. She has her own history, which all Sarawakians should know.”
Many Sarawakians shared the event via Facebook and Twitter.