10,000 expected for Head of State’s 80th birthday celebration

5 days ago 21

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KUCHING: Improved road infrastructure across Sarawak is set to boost public turnout for the 80th official birthday celebration of Head of State, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, at Padang Merdeka this upcoming Saturday (Oct. 10).

Minister of Utility and Telecommunications, Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi said the completion of major projects, including the Pan Borneo Highway, the Coastal Highway, and new bridges, has made travel significantly smoother for members of the public travelling from outside the capital.

“Sarawakians from diverse ethnic backgrounds, religions, and cultures now have the opportunity to gather and join in the celebration,” he told reporters following the full rehearsal for the parade at Padang Merdeka today.

Julaihi, who is the minister in charge of the celebration, expects between 5,000 and 10,000 people to flood Padang Merdeka on Saturday.

He voiced satisfaction with the overall progress, noting that 107 contingents involving nearly 4,400 participants from government departments and uniformed bodies took part in the full rehearsal.

“Our meticulous preparations are solid. God-willing, provided the weather remains favourable, the parade and proceedings will run as smoothly as seen today,” he said.

Security forces, including the Royal Malaysia Police and the Malaysian Armed Forces, are on full standby to guarantee public safety throughout the day.

Aside from the morning ceremonial parade, attendees can look forward to a night concert featuring national icons, Datuk Awie and Aina Abdul, alongside local artistes starting at 8:00 pm.

Julaihi also extended his warm greetings to the Head of State ahead of the milestone occasion.

“I would like to take this opportunity to wish the Head of State a very Happy 80th Birthday. Long live Tun,” he said.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki are expected to head the list of state dignitaries attending Saturday’s grand affair.