MBKS approves venue for 722 event, urges unity and mutual respect
KUCHING (July 11): The Kuching South City Council (MBKS) has approved a permit for the 'Sarawak Independence Day and Tribute to Tok Nan' event to be held at Song Kheng Hai Ground.
Kuching South Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng confirmed this in a statement today, saying there was no need for organisers to raise the issue of a delayed response on social media.
'Let us remember that we are all 'Anak Sarawak' (Sarawakians), and we all share a common love and pride for Sarawak. Let us move forward together in unity and mutual respect, especially during occasions meant to celebrate our shared heritage,' Wee said.
He also addressed criticism from event organiser and Saya Anak Sarawak founder, Peter John Jaban, who had earlier accused MBKS of being unresponsive and jeopardising plans to honour Sarawak's Independence Day and former chief minister, the late Pehin Sri Adenan Satem (Tok Nan).
'I take note of the recent public remarks made by the organising chairman of the 722 Gathering and Founder of Saya Anak Sarawak regarding the perceived lack of response from my office which, according to him, has jeopardised the event to honour Sarawak's Independence Day.
'With all due respect, I believe it is unfair to shift the blame solely to MBKS, suggesting that the gathering may be cancelled due to our delayed response.
'As all parties are aware, MBKS, together with DBKU (Kuching North City Commission) and MPP (Padawan Municipal Council), had only held a joint press conference yesterday (July 10) on the 722 Walk in conjunction with Sarawak Day, and the route and logistics of that event were only finalised at that point.
'As such, our office was not in a position to give an immediate reply earlier, as the venue and arrangements for the 722 Walk were still under discussion,' said Wee.
Earlier, Peter had voiced his disappointment over the council's delayed response, claiming it threatened the success of the event.
'We, the organisers of the upcoming public gathering scheduled for July 22, 2025, express our deep disappointment and concern over the continued silence from the office of the Mayor of Kuching South regarding our official request to utilise Song Kheng Hai Rugby Ground as a venue for this meaningful and significant occasion,' he said in a statement. 722 MBKS Peter John Jaban Song Kheng Hai Ground Tok Nan wee hong seng
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