Chief Political Secretary to the Premier of Sarawak and Tupong Assemblyman, Dato Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman, said the Sarawak Day celebration, observed every 22 July, is not merely a commemoration of a historic date but also serves as a platform to instil patriotism and appreciate the beginning of self-government that opened a new chapter for the state's development.

He said the people must now understand that Sarawak's rapid progress is the result of the sacrifice, leadership and strategic planning of past leaders.

"The changes we enjoy today, such as infrastructure development, expanding telecommunications networks, improved water and electricity supply, educational opportunities and various forms of assistance to the people, are the result of the continuous efforts of the state leadership.

"Therefore, we must appreciate this history and ensure the legacy of development that has been built continues to be strengthened," he said when officiating at the Semarak Kemerdekaan Programme at Dewan Serbaguna Kampung Kolong 2, on Saturday.

Dato Fazzrudin also called on all levels of society to play the role of leaders within their respective spheres, whether within the family, educational institutions, workplaces or communities, in order to jointly contribute to the state's development.

He also urged the community to act as agents of information by sharing the various policies, initiatives and assistance provided by the Sarawak Government so that more people can benefit from the opportunities offered.

He said the accurate and effective dissemination of information is important to ensure every government initiative can be enjoyed by its intended target group.

Also present were Deputy Director of the Sarawak Public Communications Unit (UKAS), Mohamed Faizal Shah Ali, Chairman of the Padawan Municipal Council, Tan Kai, and representative of the Kuching District Officer, Hairol Nizam Morshidi. -UKASnews

Translator: Uilson Ng