By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, March 31: A vibrant sea of colours, tradition and togetherness filled the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) today as over 13,000 visitors from all walks of life gathered for the Premier of Sarawak’s Hari Raya Aidilfitri Open House.
Although the event officially began at 10.30am, eager visitors started arriving as early as 8.30am, flooding the BCCK foyer with excitement and festive cheer.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and his wife, Puan Sri Datuk Amar Juma’ani Tun Tuanku Bujang, extended warm smiles and gracious hospitality as they welcomed guests.
The atmosphere was lively, with guests dressed in their finest traditional attire, smiles all around, and the aroma of festive delicacies filling the air.
Adding grandeur to the event was the arrival of Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, accompanied by his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, around noon.
Also in attendance were the Deputy Premiers of Sarawak, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian; Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar; Federal Minister for Tourism, Arts, and Culture (Motac) Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing; Sarawak Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts (MTCP) Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah; Sarawak State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki; Kuching South City Council (MBKS) mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng; elected representatives; and other dignitaries.
Inside the grand hall, festive melodies filled the air as thousands enjoyed a hearty buffet spread featuring an array of traditional dishes.
A feast for the eyes as much as for the palate, beautifully crafted cakes in the form of iconic mosques and Sarawak landmarks added a creative and colourful flair to the event, becoming a favourite photo spot for many.
The Premier’s Open House not only marked the joyous celebration of Hari Raya Aidilfitri, but also stood as a powerful symbol of Sarawak’s unity in diversity — a state where harmony and mutual respect continue to thrive.
Speaking to reporters during the event, Abang Johari highlighted the diverse turnout as a reflection of the strong bonds shared among Sarawakians, regardless of ethnicity or religious background.
“The presence of people from all races and religions here today shows the harmony we enjoy in Sarawak.
“We pray this spirit continues, as it forms a healthy ecosystem that supports the development of a multiracial society,” he said.
He noted that the celebration also demonstrated the close ties between the State’s leadership, including members of his Cabinet, and the people of Sarawak.
“I see many have come to BCCK today — it reflects the strong camaraderie between the state leadership and my Cabinet colleagues, and also our good relationship with the rakyat.
“With this spirit of Aidilfitri, we can move forward with full confidence. Harmony is the foundation that allows us to chart our progress as one united people,” he added.
As families, friends, and strangers sat side by side sharing meals and laughter, the spirit of ‘Raya’ shone brightly — a celebration of forgiveness, gratitude, and above all, togetherness. — DayakDaily
