Sarawak Day parade in Bau draws massive crowd, flagged off by Sabah DCM Jeffrey Kitingan
BAU (July 22): An estimated crowd of over 1,000 people turned up at the historic Tasik Biru in Bau this morning to take part in the 722 Sarawak Independence Day Cultural Parade 2025.
Organising chairman Francis James Noew told reporters he was deeply appreciative of the strong turnout.
'I think around 1,000 or more people came today, including members of the contingent involved, members of the public.
'It's really nice to see this many people show up to support this event which marks a spirited display of unity, heritage and pride,' he said.
Among the distinguished guests was Sabah Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey Kitingan, who is also Borneo Dayak Forum (BDF) president.
His attendance added significance to the occasion, reinforcing the spirit of Borneon solidarity. Kitingan later officiated the flag-off ceremony, a key moment of the day's festivities.
Participants comprising cultural contingents, community groups, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and members of the public walked the 1.2km parade route that began and ended at Tasek Biru, winding through the streets of Bau town.
Many were dressed in vibrant traditional attire and brought with them musical instruments reflecting Sarawak's rich multicultural identity.
Some of the participants during the parade. – Photo by Roystein Emmor
In his welcoming address, Francis conveyed his gratitude to all those in attendance, especially invited guests including Kitingan.
'I am personally very happy and excited to see such an enthusiastic turnout from all layers of society and various communities, cultures and backgrounds,' said Francis.
'This is not just a cultural parade but a manifestation of our love for Sarawak's historical legacy and independence. Let us continue to preserve and promote our identity as proud Sarawakians who are sovereign and cultured,' he added.
Francis also took the opportunity to reflect on some of Sarawak's early post-independence symbols, including the former state anthem 'Sarawak Bahagia' and the Trisakti flag.
He recalled how, during his primary school years in the early 1980s, the anthem was sung with pride at school assemblies and official events, representing the spirit of unity, hope, and love for the state.
'In the early 1980s, when I was still in primary school, the national anthem we passionately sang at every assembly and official state event was Sarawak, Sarawak Bahagia.
'This song wasn't just a melody; it embodied the spirit of unity, hope, and love for our homeland, Sarawak and it became a symbol of Sarawak's identity and pride at that time.
'Alsouring that period, our official state flag was the Trisaki which consists of three colours of blue, red, and white. This flag flew proudly, symbolising the commitment of the Sarawakian people to unity, peace, and progress.
'The Trisaki flag was used until 1988, when it was replaced by the current Sarawak flag that we see today.
'Recalling these moments reminds us how crucial it is to understand our history. Through it, we grasp the identity, struggles, and journey that have brought Sarawak to where we are today.
'May this history continue to inspire us all to remain united and contribute to Sarawak with sincerity and pride,' he said.
Kitingan (third left) leading the parade. – Photo by Roystein Emmor
The parade, officially flagged off by Kitingan at approximately 11am, featured colourful cultural performances including lion dance troupes, Bidayuh gong ensembles, and Malay kompang groups.
The organisers also thanked the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) for their cooperation in facilitating a smooth and peaceful procession, while reminding participants to celebrate responsibly in line with constitutional freedoms, and to avoid sensitive issues related to race, religion, and royalty.
Among the other dignitaries and guests spotted were leaders and representatives from various Dayak organisations, the Borneo Dayak Forum, Dayak International Organisation, and other community leaders. Bau cultural parade Jeffrey Kitingan lead sarawak day Tasik Biru
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