KUCHING: The Malaysia Day celebration should serve as a space for all citizens to reflect on the history of the nation’s formation, as well as to understand their respective rights and responsibilities within the Federation of Malaysia.

Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Prof. Dr. Sim Kui Hian said that September 16 is not merely a public holiday, but rather a vital date for Malaysians to reflect on the meaning behind the formation of the Federation of Malaysia and the country’s future direction.

According to him, the celebration serves as a reminder of Malaysia’s establishment in 1963, which involved the Federation of Malaya, Sarawak, Sabah, and Singapore.

In line with this, he expressed hope that the public would gain a deeper understanding of the history of Malaysia’s formation, including the position of Sabah and Sarawak’s rights, as well as the Federal Government's obligations anchored in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and the Federal Constitution.

“Let us together celebrate Malaysia Day with purpose, mission, and vision,” he said in a special message in conjunction with the Malaysia Day celebration on Tuesday.

In the meantime, Datuk Amar Prof. Dr. Sim noted that Sarawak is increasingly drawing attention, with high hopes being placed on the state to shape the future of Malaysia.

“Lately, many people are looking to Sarawak and placing their hopes in Sarawak as another way forward for Malaysia,” he said.

He also called on all Malaysians to use the Malaysia Day celebration as momentum to strengthen the spirit of togetherness and build the nation's future collectively. — UKASnews

Translator: Ryan Lim