By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, March 1: The 2025 Sarawak Independence Day Parade, a movement spearheaded by civil rights activists from across the State, is set to embark on a historic journey starting in Lawas on July 18.
The parade will make its way through Sarawak, passing through major towns before reaching its final destination at Telok Melano in Lundu on July 21, marking the symbolic 0KM point of Sarawak’s sovereignty.
The event is expected to bring together a diverse group of participants and is aimed at celebrating Sarawak’s historical significance and advocating for greater civic and political engagement.
Event convener Yeo Yaw Lee emphasised that one of the three key objectives for the parade is to honour the appointment of Sarawak’s first Chief Minister, Stephen Kalong Ningkan, and his ministerial cabinet on July 22, 1963.
“This milestone marked the creation of Sarawak’s first local government after the end of British colonial rule. The parade will highlight the gradual devolution of power from British colonial authorities to the Sarawak government, ultimately culminating in Sarawak’s statehood within the Malaysian federation,” he said in a statement today.
Yeo emphasised that the official gazetting of July 22 as Sarawak Independence Day by former Chief Minister the late Pehin Sri Adenan Satem in 2016 represents a vital day of celebration, recognising Sarawak as a nation with its own rights and laws.
Through the parade, the organisers also hope to foster a renewed sense of pride and awareness about Sarawak’s history.
Yeo stressed the importance of understanding the sacrifices made by past generations who fought for the land’s sovereignty.
“The parade will serve as a reminder that the responsibility to protect Sarawak’s rights today lies with all Sarawakians. Participants are encouraged to engage in discussions about their roles in safeguarding the State’s interests through the rule of law and actively monitoring government policies,” he said.
Sarawak is endowed with abundant natural resources, including oil, natural gas, and minerals, both onshore and offshore. However, Yeo noted that the State’s full potential has been hindered by restrictive laws, regulations, and administrative challenges.
“The parade aims to rally Sarawakians to take responsibility for the protection of these resources and push for the Sarawak government to exercise its legitimate rights in managing and utilising them. The ultimate goal is to bring about sustainable economic and social development for all Sarawakians and future generations,” he added.
The parade will stop in key towns along the way, where participants will engage with local communities to raise awareness of these important issues. By the time the convoy arrives in Telok Melano, the event hopes to leave an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of Sarawakians, inspiring a greater sense of unity and commitment to the state’s rights, heritage, and future.
