Sibu to host state-level Malaysia Day celebrations

SIBU: Sibu will host Malaysia Day celebrations at the Sibu Town Square here on Sept 16.

The celebration beginning 7pm, will showcase elaborate programmes including elements of patriotism and entertainment.

“A pre-show will start at 7pm with a concert featuring local artistes until the arrival of Head of State Tun Abdul Taib Mahmud and wife, Toh Puan Raghad Kurdi Taib at 8pm.

They will be welcomed by 100 pupils in accompaniment to the 1Malaysia Beat (Gendang 1Malaysia) comprising the hadrah and the lion dance,” said Sarawak Minister for International Trade and e-Commerce Datuk Seri Wong Soon Koh.

Wong is the minister-in-charge of the celebration and is assisted by Women, Family and Childhood Development Assistant Minister Rosey Yunus; Assistant Minister for Agriculture Dr Abdul Rahman Ismail; and Assistant Minister for Education and Technological Research Dr Annuar Rapa'ee.

At a press conference on the event here yesterday, Wong said the state anthem would be played after the arrival of the head of state, followed by an overture entitled, ‘Beauty of Malaysia' (Keindahan Malaysia) featuring traditional dances and display of Malaysia's state flags.

Abdul Taib will launch the celebration after a speech by Chief Minister Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg.

State information department director Abang Sardon Abang Hashim who leads the Kembara Jalur Gemilang Convoy will hand over the Jalur Gemilang to Abdul Taib, who will then hand it over to Royal Malaysian Navy officers to be raised in accompaniment to the Negaraku.

Later, 300 performers will put up a 15-minute special performance entitled ‘Malaysia My Nation' (Malaysia Negaraku) featuring poem recitals and elements of unity and patriotism through songs and dances.

A spectacular fireworks display will end the event for the night. - Bernama