BETONG: The Betong Division is set to become the focal point of Sarawak when it is selected as the host for the Official Birthday Celebration of His Majesty Seri Paduka Baginda the Yang di-Pertuan Agong XVII at state level in Sarawak for 2026.

The four-day celebration will be held from 11 to 14 June.

Sarawak Minister in the Premier’s Department and minister in charge of the celebration, Dato Sri John Sikie Tayai, said the event is not only a mark of respect and loyalty from the people to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong as the nation’s highest head of state, but also aims to strengthen patriotism and unity among Sarawak’s multi-ethnic population.

“This is to instil a sense of patriotism towards the services and leadership of our nation’s highest office, which brings peace, prosperity and unity to the people of Malaysia, and especially here in Sarawak,” he said.

He said this during a press conference after chairing the Second Meeting of the Main Committee Coordination for the Official Birthday Celebration of His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong XVII (Sarawak Level 2026) at the Betong Division Resident’s Office on Monday.

He added that seven main events have been planned throughout the celebration to bring the community together in a harmonious and patriotic atmosphere.

Among the key events is the “Raja Kita” exhibition, which will be held from 11 to 14 June at the grounds of the Tan Sri Datuk Amar Stephen Kalong Ningkan Sports Complex, showcasing the history and role of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong institution within the nation’s system of governance.

Also featured is Betong Kitchen, a food festival highlighting various traditional and local dishes as part of efforts to promote the culinary heritage of the local community.

On 12 June, a special sermon will be delivered in mosques throughout Sarawak in conjunction with the celebration, focusing on unity, harmony and loyalty to leadership.

Meanwhile, on 13 June, the Interfaith Thanksgiving Ceremony (UNIFOR) will be held at Panglima Rentap Hall, bringing together representatives of various religions as a symbol of Sarawak’s multicultural harmony.

The ceremony is scheduled to be officiated by Sarawak Premier Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari.

On the same day, a Thanksgiving Ceremony at Masjid Jamek Betong will also be held, to be attended by Sarawak Governor Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi.

The highlight of the celebration on 14 June will be a Tea Reception at the Tan Sri Datuk Amar Stephen Kalong Ningkan Sports Complex, bringing together leaders, civil servants and members of the public in a spirit of goodwill.

In the evening, a People’s Concert will serve as the closing event, featuring performances by local and national artistes, cultural showcases and fireworks displays.

Also present at the press conference were Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu, Deputy Minister of Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Datuk Mohammad Razi Sitam, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Snowdan Lawan, Deputy Minister of International Trade, Industry and Investment Datuk Dr Malcolm Mussen Lamoh, Sarawak Protocol, Ceremonial and Event Management Unit Director Datu Hamdan Sharbini, and Betong Division Resident Datu Richard Michael Abunawas. -UKASnews

Translator: Uilson Ng