722 Tok Nan tribute gathering cancelled amid ‘restrictive' conditions by MBKS

Borneo Post

12-07-2025

Peter described the terms as 'tyrannical', claiming they contravened democratic norms and the principles of freedom of expression.
KUCHING (July 12): The organising committee behind the proposed July 22 gathering to honour Sarawak Independence Day and pay tribute to the late Chief Minister Pehin Sri Adenan Satem (Tok Nan) has announced the cancellation of the event, despite receiving a permit to proceed at Song Kheng Hai ground here, on Friday.
The event organising chairman Peter John Jaban said, in a statement today, that there was no longer any point in holding the event due to the restrictive conditions imposed by the Kuching South City Council (MBKS), and the last-minute approval which came only after organisers raised concerns in the media about the delayed response.
'The approval letter was issued at the eleventh hour, with conditions that are both restrictive and unreasonable, including a ban on the symbolic release of pigeons, which traditionally represents freedom and unity, and a prohibition on vehicle shows, despite months of preparation by various local communities,' he said.
Peter described the terms as 'tyrannical', claiming they contravened democratic norms and the principles of freedom of expression.
'We are sad to cancel what was meant to be a community-driven initiative. This event was organised by the community, for the community. No public funds were used — it was entirely powered by volunteers, private sponsorships, and passionate Sarawakians who wanted to celebrate their shared heritage, free from political or institutional agendas,' he said.
He added that after submitting the permit application on April 7, 2025, organisers continued with three months of preparation.
However, the official approval, which arrived only on the evening of July 11 and was not even signed by the mayor, left with them insufficient time to execute the event properly.
'We wish the various councils the best of luck with their alternate programmes, such as the Unity Walk being organised this year by MBKS.
'We thank all our contributors — the big bikers, classic car enthusiasts, as well as the Kancil and sports car communities — who were looking forward to participating,' he said.
Peter also expressed regret to those who had made long-distance travel plans, including motorhome travellers from Limbang and cultural troupes from rural villages.
'Unfortunately, the onerous conditions imposed by MBKS would have precluded them from taking part. We offer our heartfelt apologies to every supporter who believed in this people's movement,' he said.
Peter also thanked the cultural troupes and performers, including villagers from across Sarawak, who had committed their time, energy, and resources to participate.
'We also applaud the efforts of the three councils in marking the occasion this year, their first time doing so, although we are saddened by the lack of engagement during the planning of their event.
'Nevertheless, we remain open to constructive and timely discussions for this and future events, to ensure continued community representation in the spirit of this celebration,' he added.
Peter also acknowledged the Unity Walk as an excellent way to bring the people together and pay tribute to the late Tok Nan, a leader who declared July 22 as a public holiday and stood for Sarawak's autonomy, unity, and pride.
'This was never about politics. It was about pride. It was about the community and the people of Sarawak,' he added.
'It was also about Sarawak First. Though this event is now cancelled, our spirit as Anak Sarawak remains strong. We will continue to pursue inclusive, respectful, and community-led efforts to honour our heritage.' 722 gathering MBKS Peter John