PETRA JAYA: Sarawak revelled in a double celebration today as it marked the birthday of the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Abdul Taib Mahmud, which happily coincides with the official birthday of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Sultan Muhamad V.
Taib's 81st birthday fete was held at the Celebration Square Kuching near the Sarawak Stadium here. Despite a rainy morning, members of the public, students, community leaders, state cabinet ministers and other invited guests arrived at the venue as early as 7.30am.
The celebration kicked off at about 9am after the arrival of Taib and his wife, Toh Puan Ragad Kurdi Taib.
The programme began with a parade of 81 contingents from various government agencies, political parties and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), followed by traditional dancing and singing performances.
One of the highlights of the festivities was the appearance of 81 children, dressed in balloon outfits, singing a birthday song to Taib, who then partook in a cake-cutting ceremony.
Chief Minister Datuk Amar Abang Johari Abang Openg said Taib, who is the longest-serving public leader in Sarawak, is a beacon of unity for all Sarawakians in their pursuit of progress and advancement.
"(Taib) has been our constant counsel in our continuous pursuit of progress and advancement. (He) plays a role in bringing unity, harmony and prosperity to (the multiracial society of) the state," he said.
Abang Johari also shared milestones of the state's economic achievements when delivering his speech at the event.
Sarawak, he said, was able to maintain a positive growth at 3.2 per cent in 2016, despite global uncertainties and a low crude oil price.
"This year, our exports improved. (So) along with economic improvements in other parts of the world, we expect our economy to improve further, (growing) between 3.5 to 4 per cent.
“Our GDP per capita stood at RM46,514 and our external trade was worth RM116.3 billion in 2016.
“Nevertheless, the challenge for us today is to propel the economy to greater heights, to achieve a high income and advanced economy by 2030.
“We want to ensure that as our economy expands, it will provide a more direct impact and increase the income of our people," Abang Johari added.
Taib later proceeded to the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) complex for the state awards and medals investiture ceremony
A state banquet at the Dewan Santapan is scheduled later in the evening at the same location.
The ‘Dirgahayu Tuan Yang Terutama’ concert will also be held at Celebration Square Kuching tonight.