Latest news with #SarawakIndependenceDay
Borneo Post
3 days ago
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Senator calls for fairness, historical clarity in Sarawak Day Message
Abun Sui Anyit KUCHING (July 21): Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) Senator Abun Sui Anyit has expressed concern over what he described as persistent imbalances in Sarawak's development and governance in his Sarawak Day message. Abun said development in the state remains uneven, particularly between the coastal regions and the interior. 'Likewise, government administration—especially at the management and political leadership levels—remains imbalanced, with certain ethnic groups appearing to dominate governance and administration in Sarawak. Is this situation orchestrated or simply coincidental?' he questioned in the message. Despite these issues, the PKR Hulu Rajang division chief said it is not too late for Sarawakians to address the situation before it worsens. 'I pray that Sarawak continues to prosper within a fair and just Malaysia, and may the spirit of July 22 continue to ignite the patriotism of the sons and daughters of the Land of the Hornbill towards this region (Sarawak) and to our nation, Malaysia,' he said. He urged the younger generation of Sarawakians to appreciate the state's history and the struggles of their forebears, and to uphold the spirit of independence with pride, warning against forgetting the past amid modern development. According to him, July 22, 1963 marked a significant historical milestone when Sarawak attained self-rule from British colonial administration, which was a crucial step leading to the formation of Malaysia on September 16 the same year. 'Sarawak is a region rich in culture, natural resources, and a strong spirit of unity. Therefore, Sarawak Day not only celebrates independence but is also a time to reflect on our journey in pursuing justice, autonomy, and the rights enshrined in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63),' he added. Abun also highlighted the significance of July 22, 1963, when Sarawak attained self-rule from British colonial administration, which he described as a crucial step toward the formation of Malaysia on September 16, 1963. He nonetheless noted there has been confusion and questions as to why July 22 is often referred to as Sarawak Day rather than 'Sarawak Independence Day' as gazetted when it was declared as a public holiday in 2016. He said the term 'Sarawak Day' is the official phrase used in government documents since its initial declaration in 2016, although from a historical and factual perspective, this day marks Sarawak's independence and freedom from colonialism. 'The choice of terminology may have been made out of political caution and federal sensitivities in the past. Nonetheless, I firmly believe that the people of Sarawak deserve to know and call our history by its proper name. July 22 should be remembered as Sarawak Independence Day—just as Sabah celebrates its Independence Day on August 31, 1963,' he said. Abun Sui Anyit history sarawak day Sarawak development
Borneo Post
13-07-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Pan Sarawak Convoy to proceed despite Kuching's 722 rally cancellation, says organiser
Yeo (fourth right), Dr Ling (fourth left), Soo (third right) join the representatives of the convoy coordinators in Miri, Kuching and Bau in a file photo prior to the rally's cancellation in Kuching. MIRI (July 13): Despite the cancellation of a '722 Rally' at Song Kheng Hai Square in Kuching, the 2025 Pan Sarawak Independence Day Convoy will still go ahead as planned. General convener Yeo Yaw Lee, in a statement today, assured all quarters – especially the participants – that the four-day motorcade would still proceed as scheduled. 'The significance of this motorcade is not in the mass gathering, but in travelling across Sarawak to awaken historical memory and raise public awareness,' said Yeo, also the treasurer of the newly-formed Miri Recreational Vehicles Camper Association. 'Our convoy commemorates Sarawak Independence Day on July 22, as gazetted by the state government. 'The three core objectives of the convoy are celebration and commemoration; historical and civic awakening; and focus on resources and development. 'The parade symbolises Sarawak's liberation from British colonial rule, and a reaffirmation of the country's original statehood status dating back to 1841. 'It is a celebration of identity, freedom from colonial shackles, and a move towards reclaiming our rightful place in history,' he added. Yeo also highlighted the importance of civic education through travel and field visits, calling upon fellow Sarawakians to recognise the power of legal and historical knowledge in protecting their rights. 'The convoy's route will follow the Pan Borneo Highway, and culminate in Telok Melano Bay, the symbolic 'Zero-Kilometre' starting point, representing a new beginning for the people of Sarawak. 'The participants will stay overnight in Kuching after completing the route.' Yeo said the convoy would kick off on July 18, departing from Lawas at 7am. The group is expected to arrive at the Labu checkpoint in Brunei by 8am before proceeding to Limbang and crossing the border into Brunei once again. By 9am, the convoy will transfer to the Sungai Tuju checkpoint and continue towards Miri, where they are expected to arrive at noon. After lunch, the journey continues to Marudi before returning to Miri by 5pm. That evening, the participants will spend the night at the Miri Beach RV Campground. On July 19, the convoy will leave Miri and travel through Bekenu, Niah, Batu Niah, Bintulu, Balingian and Mukah, before arriving in Sibu for an overnight stay. The following day, the group will head to Simanggang, passing Bintangor, Sarikei, Jakar, Saratok, Debak, Spaoh, Betong and Engkilili along the way. On July 21, the convoy will begin the next journey either from Batu Kawa or Bau, and travel to Telok Melano via Lundu and Sematan. cancellation Convoy 722 Sarawak independence day Yeo Yaw Lee
Borneo Post
12-07-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
722 Tok Nan tribute gathering cancelled amid ‘restrictive' conditions by MBKS
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
Borneo Post
11-07-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Organisers claim MBKS ignored venue application for July 22 event, could force cancellation
File photo shows the Song Kheng Hai Rugby Field. KUCHING (July 11): Organisers of a public assembly to mark Sarawak Independence Day on July 22 have accused the Kuching South City Council (MBKS) of not responding to their application to use the Song Kheng Hai Rugby Field. Saya Anak Sarawak founder Peter John Jaban claimed this could jeopardise the event's objective to honour and pay tribute to former chief minister the late Pehin Sri Adenan Satem or Tok Nan. 'We, the organisers of the upcoming public gathering scheduled for 22nd July 2025, express our deep disappointment and concern over the continued silence from the office of the Mayor of Kuching South City Council regarding our official request to utilise Song Kheng Hai Rugby Ground as a venue for this meaningful and significant occasion,' he said in a press statement. 'His (Adenan) courageous and visionary leadership continues to inspire Sarawakians, and this event aims to pay tribute to his contribution to Sarawak's identity, unity, and autonomy.' Peter said due to the lack of response from the mayor's office, the planned gathering could be cancelled as organisers do not have a suitable space to accommodate participants. 'In the past, we did not have any problem securing Song Kheng Hai Rugby Ground for our public gatherings,' he said. He pledged the organisers are law-abiding citizens, who have shown during past events they would ensure all participants follow the law. According to him, an application letter to use the facility was submitted on April 7, more than three months in advance, to allow sufficient time for planning and coordination. He claimed organisers have not received any acknowledgement or response from the mayor's office. 'Such complete silence is not only unprofessional but disrespectful to the memory of Adenan and the significance of the date for Sarawakians,' he stated. Peter said organisers also wrote to the Office of the Premier of Sarawak requesting a courtesy call to inform and brief Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg about the public event. 'Regrettably, we have also not received any reply from the Premier's Office to date. 'Let it be clearly stated that we cannot be expected to organise a large-scale and meaningful public event within less than a month,' he said. According to him, responsible event planning requires coordination with government agencies, community engagement, logistics, security, and cultural programming. Peter said such preparations are only possible with timely support from relevant authorities, adding public spaces such as the Song Kheng Hai Rugby Field exist to serve the people. 'We have duly notified the police well in advance and they have no objection to us organising the public gathering. As responsible and law-abiding NGOs, it is our duty to inform the police,' he said. 'Time is running out. Tok Nan's legacy deserves our respect. Sarawakians deserve better.' On April 23, 2016, Adenan declared July 22 a public holiday . He said then that 'Sarawak Day' would be for Sarawakians to remember the sacrifices and contributions of past leaders. Adenan Satem July 22 lead Peter John Jaban Song Kheng Hai rugby field
Borneo Post
19-06-2025
- Automotive
- Borneo Post
From Lawas to KM0: Convoy 722 to celebrate Sarawak's journey to autonomy
(From left) Hanim, Yeo and Dr Ling during the press conference. MIRI (June 19): A road expedition involving motorhomes, campervans and four-wheel-drive (4WD) vehicles will traverse Sarawak next month in conjunction with Sarawak Independence Day. Dubbed Convoy 722, the event is organised by the Miri Recreational Vehicle Campers Association in collaboration with civil rights activists from across Malaysia. The convoy is scheduled to flag off from Lawas on July 18 and conclude at Telok Melano, also known as Kilometre Zero, on July 21. Speaking at a press conference today, organising chairman Yeo Yaw Lee said the convoy is expected to involve 40 to 50 participants travelling in 10 recreational vehicles, including both rented and privately owned units. 'We're offering a five-day travel package at RM500 per participant, inclusive of motorhome rentals. 'However, participants are also welcome to join using their own vehicles,' he said, adding that more vehicles may be added depending on final registration numbers. He said the route will take participants through Limbang, Miri, Bintulu, Sibu, Kapit, Sarikei, Simanggang, Engkilili, Serian, and Kuching before ending in Telok Melano – a symbolic destination in the context of Sarawak's autonomy and heritage. Yeo said the group will also seek a meeting with Tanjong Datu assemblyman Azizul Annuar Adenan upon their arrival at Telok Melano. 'This convoy is not only a celebration of Sarawak Independence Day but also a tribute to the late (chief minister) Pehin Sri Adenan Satem, affectionately known as Tok Nan, for his immense contributions to Sarawak,' he said. Beyond commemoration, Convoy 722 aims to raise public awareness about Sarawak's history, state rights, and control over its own resources – elements seen as vital for the state's continued development. To support the initiative, the organisers will sell commemorative T-shirts, accept public donations, and seek sponsorships or grants from elected representatives to help cover costs. For more information or to register, interested participants or donors may call Dr Ling on 0111-8855588, Yeo on 019-8554299, or Wong on 0111-539496. Also present at the press conference were the association's chairman and convoy chief Dr Ling Tung King, as well as assistant secretary Hanim Jaraee. Convoy 722 Sarawak Independence
