19 hours ago
Tasik Biru to host 722 Sarawak Independence Day Cultural Parade on July 22
Awang Ahmad (fourth right) hands over the event invitation to Sophian, while others look on.
KUCHING (June 27): The 722 Sarawak Independence Day Cultural Parade will be held at Tasik Biru, Bau on July 22 from 9am to 12 noon, in a celebration that will blend patriotism with cultural pride and unity.
Organising chairman Francis James Noew said the event will begin with the flag-raising ceremony of both the Crown flag and the current state flag, accompanied by the singing of 'Fairland Sarawak' and 'Ibu Pertiwi Ku'.
He announced the event following a courtesy visit to the Malaysian Human Rights Commission (Suhakam) Sarawak Executive Sophian Osman at the latter's office here yesterday.
According to him, the parade will commence with a welcoming address by the organiser, followed by speeches from representatives of the Chinese and Malay communities.
The highlight of the day will be a special address by guest-of-honour Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey Kitingan, Deputy Chief Minister of Sabah and the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries.
Dr Jeffrey Kitingan, a longtime supporter of the event since its very first 722 Sarawak Independence Day Walk in 2013, is scheduled to flag off the parade at approximately 10 am, said Francis.
The cultural procession will begin at the Bau Food Village, pass through the Bau Bazaar, and return to the starting point.
Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) as well as Dayak, Malay, and Chinese cultural troupes have been invited to participate in the celebration.
'Participants are encouraged to wear traditional attire and bring their traditional musical instruments,' Francis said, adding that performances will include the lion dance, 'kompang', and the Bidayuh gong ensemble.
The event will also feature the 722 Convoy group, travelling from Lawas to Telok Melano, with a scheduled stop at Tasik Biru to join the festivities.
Invitations have also been extended to elected representatives from N1 Opar, N2 Tasik Biru, and Bengoh, as many parade participants originate from these constituencies.
'The Suhakam Sarawak executive and his team have also assured of their attendance,' Francis said, reiterating that freedom of speech and peaceful affiliation remain protected.
'As outlined in Suhakam's policy, the executive affirms that freedom of speech and affiliation is freely practised without interference or sabotage from third parties,' he said.
Participants may bring along placards or flags displaying their NGOs affiliations.
However, organisers have cautioned all parties not to exploit sensitive issues related to race, religion, or the royal institution (3R).
Organising Advisor Awang Ahmad Awang Ali also weighed in, stating: 'We are simply continuing the legacy started by the late Tok Nan (Pehin Sri Adenan Satem), Sarawak's former Chief Minister.'
The celebration will also include a live band performance at the venue from 12pm till 5pm. 722 Sarawak Independence Day Cultural Parade lead Tasik Biru
