By Ling Hui
BAU, July 22: While Aug 31, 1963, has yet to be recognised as the independence day for Sabah, Sarawakians are called on to celebrate its already gazetted Sarawak Day public holiday on July 22 as best they can.
Homeland Solidarity Party (Star) information chief Jalumin Bayogoh urged Sarawakians to fill the day of July 22 with as many meaningful events as possible to commemorate Sarawak’s independence.
He said Sarawakians should celebrate today in all corners of the State so that the general public knows that July 22 is not merely a public holiday but a day of celebration.
“We who know this independence must find ways to fill this day with meaning. If we only shout slogans, until when will we be able to do that?
“So, my advice to everyone in Sarawak, celebrate this day merrily and make it meaningful. We in Sabah have yet to have our Sabah Day recognised.
“You all in Sarawak already have your Sarawak Day, so make it worthwhile. Take the opportunity as best you can so we all can enjoy the independence of our lands,” he said during the Sarawak Day Celebration held at Bung Orad, Grogo in Bau today.
Jalumin attended the 10th 722 celebrations on behalf of Deputy Chief Minister of Sabah Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffery Kitingan, who is also the founding president of Star Sabah.
Meanwhile, Freddy Misid, representing Mas Gading MP Mordi Bimol of the Democratic Action Party (DAP), urged all Sarawakians to stay true to their identity as people of Sarawak.
He said differences in beliefs, skin colour, race, and religions do not alter the roots of Sarawakians.
“This is what history has taught us. If there is civilisation, there is a nation and a country. Whatever your skin colour, religion, or race, if you have your IC and were born in Sarawak, then you are a Sarawakian.
“If you’re a Dayak who is a follower of Islam, you’re still a Dayak. If you’re a Chinese who believes in Christianity, you’re still Chinese.
“Our identity remains as Sarawakians. Don’t let the differences in political ideology, race and religion become a hindrance to Sarawak unity,” he said.
Sarawak Association for Peoples’ Aspiration (Sapa) president Dominique Ng and 10th 722 Sarawak Independence Day organising chairman Anthony David were among those present. — DayakDaily
