By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, July 10: In a historic first, Kuching’s three local councils—Kuching South City Council (MBKS), Kuching North City Commission (DBKU), and Padawan Municipal Council (MPP)—will come together to jointly organise the 722 Walk in commemoration of Sarawak Day, with MBKS taking the lead this year.
The 3km walk, scheduled for Tuesday (July 22) at 6am, will begin at MBKS Boulevard and end at Kuching Waterfront, passing through key city landmarks.
It is expected to draw over 1,000 participants, including council staff from all three local authorities and community representatives such as the Salvation Army.
MBKS Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said the idea started as a simple and sincere effort to find a meaningful way to honour Sarawak Day and promote unity.
When he first proposed the initiative to DBKU Mayor Dato Hilmy Othman and MPP chairman Cr Tan Kai, both pledged their full support without hesitation.
“What began as a small concept quickly evolved into a collaborative city-wide effort. I am truly grateful to both councils for sharing this vision,” he said during a press conference held at MBKS building here today.
The walk will alternate hosts in coming years, with DBKU to host in 2026, followed by MPP in 2027.
Wee also extended thanks to the City Jogger’s Club (CJC) for co-organising the event. CJC volunteers will serve as marshals during the walk to ensure smooth coordination and safety.
While the main participants will be council staff, the public is also welcome to join. MBKS invites the public to wear T-shirts in red, black, or yellow—the colours of the Sarawak flag—as a mark of pride.
At the same time, DBKU Mayor Dato Hilmy Othman revealed that he was more than willing to reschedule other events under DBKU’s calendar to prioritise the 722 Walk, which he described as a prestigious and patriotic initiative.
“Dato Wee actually whispered to me about having this function together with the other councils. After receiving a call from him and hearing the patriotic spirit behind the idea, we decided to give way to this event,” he disclosed.
He emphasised that Sarawak Day is not only about commemorating the State’s self-government in 1963, but also about fostering a sense of unity and belonging among Sarawakians.
“The 722 Walk involving MBKS, DBKU, and MPP is a powerful symbol of solidarity and cooperation in promoting a healthy lifestyle and strengthening community ties in Kuching,” he said.
Hilmy added that such efforts align with DBKU’s aspirations to create a progressive and inclusive urban society. While MBKS is hosting the walk this year, he expressed hope that DBKU will have the honour to host it in 2026.
“Maybe next year we can turn it into a 722 Run,” he joked. “We give people the chance to walk this year, then maybe train them to run next year.”
Meanwhile, MPP Chairman Cr Tan Kai also credited Dato Wee for initiating the collaboration.
“When he brought it up last month, he said, why don’t the three councils join together and organise the 722 Walk? I immediately said yes,” Tan shared.
He noted that while the Sarawak Day celebration at the State level is usually well-covered, local councils, as the frontline with the people, should also celebrate with the community on a meaningful scale.
“For Sarawakians abroad who cannot join us here, we encourage you to celebrate in your own way — even if it means cooking laksa or kolok mee,” he added.
Tan also urged businesses, especially in areas like Padungan, to fly the Sarawak flag proudly on that day. – DayakDaily
