By Dayangku Hidayatul
KUCHING, July 22: Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian has called on Sarawakians to take pride in their roots, reminding them that they will always be anak Sarawak regardless of where life takes them.
Speaking before officiating the flag-off ceremony for the 722 Walk in commemoration of Sarawak Day 2026 at the Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Boulevard today, Dr Sim said being born in Sarawak is an identity that remains with a person for life.
“I always tell people that once you’re anak Sarawak, you are forever anak Sarawak. One day, even if you move to Australia and obtain an Australian passport, what is your tempat lahir (place of birth)? Sarawak.
“If you choose to live in the United Kingdom and apply for a British passport, what is your tempat lahir? Sarawak.
“You cannot say ‘unknown’. If your place of birth is listed as unknown, the passport office will ask you to go home. How can your place of birth be unknown? That is why you are forever anak Sarawak,” he said.
Dr Sim noted that Sarawak Day, which was gazetted as a public holiday in 2016 by the late former Chief Minister Pehin Sri Adenan Satem, was established to give Sarawakians an opportunity to celebrate the State’s history and achievements in their own way.
He said the occasion serves not only as a reminder of Sarawak’s self-government journey but also as a celebration of the unity and diversity that define the State.
At the same time, he urged Sarawakians not to take the annual celebration for granted and encouraged them to maintain healthy lifestyles for the continued progress and well-being of the State.
“When you are healthy, Sarawak is healthy. If you are sick, Sarawak also has to look after you,” he said.
Dr Sim added that the Sarawak flag symbolises the pride, identity and spirit of anak Sarawak, including those living abroad who continue to maintain strong ties with their homeland.
Meanwhile, MBKS Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said Sarawak Day serves as an important reminder of the State’s self-government journey and the need to safeguard its rights while continuously improving governance and public services.
He emphasised that unity remains Sarawak’s greatest strength and called on all Sarawakians to uphold the spirit of “Segulai Sejalai” as they work together towards a stronger and more prosperous future.
Among those present were Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) director Ramzi Abdillah, Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) chairman Tan Kai, Kota Samarahan Municipal Council (MPKS) chairman Abang Ismawi Abang Ismail, Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap, and Batu Kitang assemblyman Datuk Lo Khere Chiang. — DayakDaily
