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YANG di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak, Tun Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, has urged Sarawakians to remain united and continue collaborating with the government and private sector in building a prosperous future for the state.
Delivering his message ahead of Sarawak Day, he described 22 July 1963 as a key milestone in the development of the state's identity, marking the transfer of administrative power from the British colonial government to a locally led administration headed by Sarawak’s first Chief Minister, Tan Sri Stephen Kalong Ningkan.
“This event was a crucial stepping stone in preparing Sarawak to join the formation of Malaysia alongside Sabah, Singapore and Malaya. The handover took place before Sarawak officially became part of the Malaysian Federation on 16 September 1963,” he said.
“It marked the beginning of Sarawak’s sovereign identity within Malaysia. We remember with gratitude the early leaders who paved the way, such as Tan Sri Stephen Kalong Ningkan and Datuk Seri Tawi Sli, for their vital roles in shaping the state's early governance.”
Tun Wan Junaidi also paid tribute to the late former Chief Ministers — Tun Abdul Rahman Ya’kub, Tun Abdul Taib Mahmud, and Tan Sri Adenan Satem — for their lasting contributions to Sarawak’s development.
Commenting on the current state administration, he praised Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s leadership, particularly in steering Sarawak’s economic transformation through the Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
“The PCDS 2030 strategy, with its focus on the digital economy, renewable energy — including green hydrogen — bioeconomy, education, and innovation, has placed Sarawak on a strong trajectory towards global relevance,” he said.
“Sarawak’s economy has shown remarkable resilience post-pandemic and is now positioned to become a leader in green energy and digital transformation. None of this progress would be possible without close cooperation between government, the people and private industry.”
He added, “The government sets policies and infrastructure, the private sector drives investment, and the people are the heart of our development aspirations.”
In closing, the Governor expressed hope that Sarawak Day celebrations this year will further ignite a deep love for the state and inspire its people to move forward with unity and confidence. - July 21, 2025