Kuching councils to host inaugural 722 Walk as symbol of unity for Sarawak Day

Borneo Post

10-07-2025

Wee (front, seventh right) flanked by Hilmy (left) and Tan in a photocall with other organising committee members after the press conference. – Photo by Roystein Emmor
KUCHING (July 10): A historic collaboration between Kuching's three local councils will see the city hosting the inaugural 722 Walk this Sarawak Day, offering the public a meaningful and festive way to commemorate the state's journey to self-governance.
The 722 Walk, taking place on July 22, will bring together the Kuching South City Council (MBKS), Kuching North City Commission (DBKU), and Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) for the first time ever in a joint event.
The three-kilometre walk, which kicks off at 6am from the MBKS headquarters and ends at the Kuching Waterfront, is expected to draw over 1,000 participants, including council staff and the public.
Kuching South Mayor, Dato Wee Hong Seng, the key driver behind the initiative, described the event as more than a walk – it is 'a celebration of history, health, heritage, hope, and unity.'
'We understand the main state-level celebration is in Miri this year, but that does not stop us from holding our own event here in Kuching.
'This walk is our way of celebrating Sarawak Day in a way that is inclusive, healthy, and full of Sarawakian spirit,' he told a press conference at MBKS headquarters today.
Inspired by a casual discussion among council leaders, the 722 Walk was born out of a shared desire to engage the public meaningfully on a day that commemorates Sarawak's self-government on July 22, 1963.
To foster greater youth engagement, Child Councils from all three local authorities will be joining the walk, promoting patriotism among the younger generation.
No registration is required, and participants are encouraged to wear red, black, and yellow or Sarawak batik to reflect the occasion's spirit.
The walk will also highlight Kuching's vibrant multiculturalism and long-standing harmony, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (UNSDG) of promoting good health and well-being.
City Jogger Club (CJC) has come on board as a co-organiser, assisting with logistics and providing volunteers as marshals – a gesture hailed by Wee as 'a model for civic responsibility'.
Also present at the press conference, Kuching North Datuk Bandar, Dato Hilmy Othman, expressed his support for the joint effort, crediting Wee's patriotic vision for uniting the councils.
'Celebrating this day together sends a powerful message about unity, not just among government agencies but also among the people of Kuching.
'This initiative promotes a healthy lifestyle while also reminding us of our shared past and future,' said Hilmy, adding that DBKU looks forward to hosting the 722 Walk next year as part of a rotating schedule.
MPP Chairman Tan Kai echoed similar sentiments, stressing that local councils are best positioned to bring Sarawakians together at the grassroots level.
He encouraged overseas Sarawakians to mark the day in their own way, 'even if it's just by flying the Sarawak flag or cooking Sarawak laksa.'
The public is also encouraged to display the Sarawak flag proudly across homes and businesses on July 22 in a show of solidarity.
Wee concluded by urging all Sarawakians to embrace the meaning of the day: 'Sarawak Day is not just a date on the calendar – it's a reminder of who we are and what we stand for.' 722 Walk DBKU inaugural Kuching MBKS MPP sarawak day