They are much more aware of the State’s history now
Melanie Tan, who works in a law firm who was vaguely aware of the state’s history said Sarawakians should observe this historically important day with utmost pride.
“We should be proud of the fact that we as Sarawakians are racially and religiously harmonious and having to achieve unity in diversity despite our differences,” she told The Borneo Post yesterday.
Michael Liong, who is the International Business Group director for Fame International Group Sdn Bhd, said it was great that the state government had declared July 22 a state public holiday to commemorate this historic day.
“I think in a way, Sarawak and its people are recognising the contributions of our past leaders who had contributed immensely to the development of this state.”
“But more importantly, today will be memorable to us all and it is a day to also look back on our achievements and remind ourselves to remain united because together we will go forth to fight for a greater Sarawak.”
“Sarawak Day, Sarawak Self-Government Day or Sarawak Independence Day, whichever is the correct term, it was when Sarawak governed itself instead of being colonised by the British. Without Sarawak Day, there would be no Malaysia.”
“It is important for Sarawakians to observe and celebrate July 22 because it is a day long forgotten.”
Ducati Borneo director Dean Kuan pointed out that this day should be seen as the high point of a new era for Sarawak especially when Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem) and other state leaders were committed to safeguard Sarawak’s rights and interests as one of the founding partners of the Federation of Malaysia.
“I think today will mark the beginning of Sarawak embarking on an amazing journey to pursue greater autonomy according to the Malaysian Agreement because we deserve it.”
A retired civil servant Rahman Yusuf said that it was important for Sarawak to celebrate Sarawak Day besides Merdeka Day (Aug 31) and Malaysia Day (Sept 16) to instill the spirit of love and patriotism for the state and nation among the younger generation in particular.
“Perhaps the new generation will not realise the suffering and struggles of our generation before Merdeka. Through this Sarawak Day celebration, the message of our struggle for independence can be heard and understood.”
The 65-year-old who hails from Sibu but lives in Kuching urged Sarawakians especially the younger generation to learn
and appreciate the history of Sarawak’s independence to lead Sarawak to its intended direction.
Mohd Faizal who did not know the history of Sarawak’s independence was full of excitement as he did not want to miss the celebration.
“During my school days, history was focused on Independence Day of Aug 31, 1957 and Malaysia Day of Sept 16, 1963. So I think the first celebration of Sarawak Day will be extremely special as it marks the moment this state achieved self-governance within Malaysia.”
“I believe that many in the younger generation like me have little understanding of this part of history. With the celebration of July 22 as a public holiday, the younger generation can be exposed to better understand the significance of history.”
Kairul Anwar, who works for Kuching Waterfront, emphasised that the celebration of Sarawak Day was not only a reflection of the struggles and contributions of past leaders, of whom some may still be alive, but to introduce this part of the history to the younger generation.
“Sarawakians especially the older generation who grew up in that era have been anticipating this major celebration.”
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