Getting ready and excited with forthcoming matches at State Stadium in Petra Jaya now renamed as "Stadium Taha Ariffin"

Our State Stadium in Petra Jaya, Kuching has recently undergone substantial upgrading works to ensure the facilities there complies with prerequisite requirements for hosting regional and international sporting events especially for football in which it will be the home ground for Kuching City Football Club. I have disclosed to our media friends that the stadium has been officially renamed "Stadium Taha Ariffin" in honour of the late former Football Association of Sarawak (FAS) president and the has seen several improvement works aimed at modern comforts to spectators experience and general site amenities.

For high-level competitions at regional or international level, our stadiums must undergo standard upgrading processes. While village or division-level events may have modest requirements, higher-tier matches demand strict adherence to facility standards. I have also revealed that I had personally caught a bird’s-eye view of the venue’s physical transformation recently while flying over the venue by helicopter. I have noticed and was impressed with the newly installed individual seating. Where there used to be plain concrete steps, there are now proper individual seats throughout.

Beyond spectator seating arrangements, the ongoing refurbishments will cover crucial spectator facilities, including public toilets and improved concourse areas to accommodate larger match-day turnouts. I have also urged our home fans to turn up for the upcoming matches between Kuching City FC and other visiting teams including Sabah FC scheduled for a friendly match on October 1; the return quarterfinal FA Cup 2026 match with Kelantan FC; the Shopee Cup 2026 match on October 10. 

Our deepest condolences to our former Prime Minister, the right honourable Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and his family

Our deepest condolences to our former Prime Minister, the right honourable Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and his family on the demise of Allahyarhamah Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali. 

I had described her passing as a monumental loss for the entire country, acknowledging her quiet yet pivotal role during Malaysia’s transformative years. I have just received this sad news upon arriving from Miri this morning. On behalf of our ministry and the state, I wish to extend our deepest condolences to Tun Dr Mahathir and his family. 

I have also reflected on her legacy and had highlighted Dr Siti Hasmah’s steadfast support for Dr Mahathir during his 22-year first tenure as the nation's former prime minister. It is a immense loss, not only for Tun Mahathir, his children, and his family, but for all Malaysians. 

We know Tun Mahathir had led the nation for over two decades, and behind every great leader, the support structure is vital. Allahyarmah Tun Dr Siti Hasmah was truly the backbone of Tun Mahathir throughout his leadership. We noted that the era under Dr Mahathir’s leadership marked a golden age of development for Malaysia, made possible through the unwavering contributions of his late wife. 

It was a glorious era for Malaysia where we experienced tremendous progress and structural changes. Allahyarhamah Tun Dr Siti Hasmah had made immense contributions behind the scenes allowed Tun Mahathir to serve the nation effectively. Our thoughts and prayers remain with Tun Mahathir and his family during this difficult time.

Celebrating 20th anniversary of BE Sarawak and its contribution to development of business events in Sarawak

It was a great pleasure for us to join last night’s gala dinner celebrating the 20th Anniversary of Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak) at Voco hotel Kuching. The event had marked two decades of dedication, collaboration and our joint achievements in positioning Sarawak as a preferred destination for business events. Initially, Sarawak Convention Bureau (SCB) was established by the Sarawak Government and it was rebranded to “BESarawak” in 2019. The agency under Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry & Performing Arts Sarawak (MTCP) had played a pivotal role in strengthening our state’s presence in the business events industry, both in Malaysia and on the global stage.

The evening was made even more meaningful by the presence of the former Chairmen and Chief Executive Officers (CEO) of BESarawak, whose leadership, commitment and contributions have helped shape the organisation throughout its 20-year journey. Their collective efforts, together with those of our industry partners, event professionals, associations and stakeholders, have laid a strong foundation for Sarawak to host high-quality international conferences, exhibitions, incentive programmes and business events that bring knowledge, investment, networking opportunities and economic benefits to our state.

As we celebrate this important milestone, we also look ahead with confidence to the next chapter of Sarawak’s business events industry. With our unique destinations, strong infrastructure, diverse cultural heritage and growing international connectivity, Sarawak is well positioned to further strengthen its reputation as a world-class business events destination. Congratulations to BESarawak on 20 remarkable years, and my appreciation to everyone who has contributed to this inspiring journey. Together, let us continue to work together in elevating Sarawak onto the global business events stage.

Sarawak has recorded a total of 1,587 business events organized locally since 2006

To date, Sarawak has recorded a total of 1,587 business events organized locally since 2006 in which it had generated an estimated economic impact of RM4.95 billion and having attracted over 500,000 delegates from throughout Malaysia and worldwide.

Such achievements reflect the growth of our business events industry over the past two decades, as well as enhanced local capabilities and international confidence in Sarawak as a preferred business events destination. The establishment of Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak) 20 years ago had demonstrated our government's dedicated efforts to introduce Sarawak to the world as an exciting new destination for business events.

Formerly known as "Sarawak Convention Bureau (SCB)," the organization was rebranded as "BESarawak" in 2019 to reflect broader aspirations regarding the role of business events in Sarawak's development. The COVID-19 pandemic also prompted Sarawak to develop a more resilient industry model by focusing on long-term impact—or legacy—in alignment with the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.

The Right Honourable Premier of Sarawak and the Sarawak Government had introduced PCDS 2030 to build a more prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable Sarawak; legacy-driven business events align with this same direction. Last year, we had launched "AI.LEGACY"—a Smart Business Events Impact Management System designed to measure and understand the impact generated by events—as well as "LEGACY360," a platform to strengthen the ecosystem through education, leadership, recognition, and collaboration.

Our goal is no longer merely to track the number of events organized in Sarawak, but to focus on the changes resulting from those events, who benefits from them, and the legacy they leave behind. Among Sarawak's significant achievements was winning the "Best Marketing Award" from the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) in 2008, followed by securing the right to host the "55th ICCA Congress in 2016," which brought together over 1,000 delegates from 60 countries.

Presentation of "Pingat Jasa Pahlawan Sarawak (PJPS)" to 301 former Police and Armed Forces veterans

Over 300 recipients of our “Pingat Jasa Pahlawan #Sarawak (PJPS) were invited to attend the investiture ceremony held at Pullman #Kuching hotel. The recipients of the PJPS award consisted of retired police officers and military veterans. The ceremony was grace by our Head of State, Tuan Yang Terutama (TYT) Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Pehin Sri Dr Haji Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Hajjah Fauziah Mohd Sanusi.

Also among the recipients was former 21st Chief of the Malaysian Armed Forces General Tan Sri Affendi Buang (Rtd), along with former Deputy Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Mohd Jamil Johari, former police officer Dato Mohd Chee Kadir and retired Deputy Commissioner of Police Dato Peter Nyomek Nyeap.  

The remaining 296 recipients were also recognised for their contributions during their service with the nation’s security forces. The ceremony stands as a poignant reminder of the enduring gratitude our state holds for those who dedicated their youth to protecting our borders and maintaining societal peace.

The state government's presentation of the PJPS medals serves as a heartfelt recognition of the immense sacrifices made by the former law enforcers members and army veterans. To the recipients, they shared a collective sense of pride, reflecting on their past struggles—including historic operations against communist insurgents—to secure the safety and sovereignty enjoyed by Sarawakians today.

This memorable occasion underscores the Sarawak Government's unwavering commitment to uplifting and remembering our national heroes. By preserving their legacies and honoring their bravery, we ensure that younger generations understand the true price of the harmony we experience every day. We salute our veterans for their timeless devotion to the nation, carrying forward the brave spirit of Agi Idup Agi Ngelaban.

My comments on our approaching state election & on the news of public display of new electoral map

The news on Election Commission's (EC) present follow up actions on the proposed redelineation of 17 new state constituencies had created some kind of excitement among local folks but such efforts may not be completed in time for the coming Sarawak state election scheduled sometime at the end of the year.

Our local media friends seek my comments on this matter and I have mentioned on the time consuming procedures that included the public display of the proposed electoral map and its subsequent endorsement by Parliament.

At this time when our state election is approaching, the EC has finally issued a notice on the proposed redelineation. For me, this should have been done months ago and my question was whether the process can be done in time for the 17 new seats to be included in the forthcoming election.

Netizens had earlier on commented on the alleged leaked EC letter seeking space from local authorities to display its proposed redelineation of state constituencies. The letter had included an appendix listing 17 new state seats and 10 renamed seats.

It was a well known fact our Sarawak Legislative Assembly's current term is due to end in February 2027 unless it is dissolved earlier, after which the election must be held within 60 days.

However, the public display exercise of the proposed redelineation could take two or three months, with more time required if objections are raised, before it can be tabled in Parliament for approval. My question was...can all these statutory procedures be completed by February at the latest?

Even though it is a good effort by the EC, I have my reservations about whether the 17 new seats can be contested in the coming election. The EC should have begun the redelineation process immediately after the state assembly passed the Dewan Undangan Negeri (Composition of Membership) Bill in July last year to increase the number of elected representatives from 82 to 99.

Our government and Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg, has its own plans and timing for the state election...we should not have to wait for the EC to decide when to dissolve the state assembly.

Welcoming the organising of "Sarawak Umrah & Islamic Travel Expo Festival 2026 (SUITEX2026)" in Miri

There will be an interesting line up of programs and activities held in conjunction with the forthcoming “Sarawak Umrah & Islamic Travel Expo Festival 2026 (SUITEX2026)” to be held in Miri on August 28 to 30. The three-day event will showcase the various services and products by members of Sarawak Umrah Haji Travel Agencies Association (SUHA). 

Our thanks to the association for having invited us for the press conference and official announcement on the inaugural event which is expected to attract the general public including visitors from neighbouring Brunei Darulsalam and Sabah.

I have mentioned during the press conference on the benefits of organising such events where the public have access to pertinent information as well as guidance from the various travel agencies that are already certified to provide Umrah and Haji arrangements. Occasionally we do hear unfortunate news on pilgrims who failed to use bonafide, licensed travel agents for their Umrah and Haj arrangements. 

This is essential to prevent them from suffering costly fraud and unscrupulous parties who do not follow legal compliance with Saudi regulations, and guarantee proper logistical support. The use of verified operators will help to prevent future pilgrims from getting stranded, secure official visas, and provide authentic accommodations near the holy sites in Mekah and Madinah.  

Overwhelming response to "Karnival Jom Heboh (KJH) Segulai Sejalai Sarawak 2026" in Kota Samarahan

The organising of “Karnival Jom Heboh 2026 (KJH2026) Segulai Sejalai Sarawak” in Kota Samarahan had received overwhelming response from our local folks and the “Jom Lokal Jam” concert which started on August 1 had attracted a crowd of 20,000 attendees from all walks of life across several districts including Asajaya. Stakan, Muara Tuang, Sebuyau even right up to Sarikei division. 

The event is being organised outside Kuching City this time round and it centred at the car park area of Kota Samarahan Civic Centre where exhibition booths were also set up. Local food and drinks vendors including small and medium enterprises (SME) took part in this exciting event fully supported by our Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry & Performing Arts Sarawak together with Majlis Perbandaran Kota Samarahan (MPKS).

Previously the event was held in Kuching City particularly at Petra Jaya but the organising of this year’s edition is organised in Kota Samarahan and in Miri later on August 28 to 30. 

Kudos to Media Prima Omni and its affiliates which had dedicated the main concert stage to local talents because it celebrates the diversity of Sarawak’s music and give homegrown performers the opportunity to showcase their abilities. Business activities were commendable and good sales registered at the respective booths where our local folks were seen to have truly enjoyed the experience of patronising this year’s edition of “KJH Segulai Sejalai Sarawak”.

An exciting "Pesta Babulang & Lumba Karabau" in Batu Danau, Limbang

This morning I have left for Limbang to attend the official opening ceremony of the annual “Pesta Babulang and Buffalo Racing Festival” which is entering its 21st edition this year. I had also represented our right honorable Premier of Sarawak at this colourful festival which is on from 5 to 7 June at the Babulang Festival Grounds of Batu Danau area. Well done and congratulations to the Sarawak Bisaya Association, who have successfully attracted thousands of visitors to this iconic cultural festival which had featured the much anticipated buffalo racing and also the uniquely decorated water buffalo parade by the Bisaya community. 

For the record, Pesta Babulang is the largest traditional harvest festival celebrated by the Bisaya community which is found Limbang, the northern part of Sarawak. It is basically the celebration of the bountiful harvest and welcoming a new farming cycle. The annual festival had always served as a cultural cornerstone by preserving Bisaya identity, unifying scattered communities, and boosting the local rural economy through heritage tourism. 

There were a lot of exciting activities and are packed with unique traditions and cultural of the Bisaya that kept their heritage alive for the society to participate in the merry making. 

Among the list of activities that are included in the weekend festival are:

• The Buffalo Race which is locally known as Lumba Karabau tha is basically the thrilling main event where riders race bareback on water buffaloes.
• Ratu Babulang which is a vibrant beauty pageant where young Bisaya women showcase traditional costumes and grace to win the crown.
• Nakod Babulang is a community feast-giving ritual that highlights ancestral customs, music, and dances.
• Luangan Display of traditional banners and decorations that are highly symbolic and used in rituals, weddings, and festivals. 

The festival is highly significant to the local Bisaya community because it revolves on their identity and pride. The event acts as a living museum, keeping language, art, and heritage alive for younger generations. The event also promotes community unity and cohesiveness because it brings the Bisaya together from across Sarawak, Sabah, and Brunei, while also fostering harmony among other ethnic groups in Limbang. Apart from being the economic catalyst, the festival will normally attracts thousands of tourists, driving local entrepreneurship, handicraft sales, and culinary tourism. Last but not least, it is for cultural preservation because tt safeguards ancestral knowledge and rituals from fading into obscurity in the modern era.

Questioning the delay in Federal Government's nod for proposed Sarawak state election seats increase

Recently I have again questioned the delay in obtaining the Federal government’s endorsement for Sarawak’s proposal to increase the number of state constituencies from 82 to 99. This is because the motion, which I have tabled in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) over a year ago, had received overwhelming support but has yet to be acted upon at the federal level.

I am quite sentimental about this issue because I was the one who tabled the motion. The motion received strong support in DUN and our hope is for it to be accepted and implemented. I have pointed out that Parliament had convened several times since the proposal was passed by the DUN. It was tabled more than a year ago. It only needs endorsement from the federal level.

Over the past year, Parliament has sat three times, but there has been no effort by the minister in charge of law to bring it up. The delay appeared to show a lack of respect for the DUN’s decision. I also rejected suggestions linking the proposal to parliamentary constituencies. Whether there is another agenda behind the delay, only they would know. Moreover, I am not talking about parliamentary seats.

We in the state can only arrange for an increase in state seats. The parliamentary seats will remain at 31 but the state seats should be increased to 99. I have pointed out that the proposal is justified as the constitutional requirement for a new delimitation exercise has already been met. Under the Federal Constitution, the delimitation of boundaries can only be done after eight years, and we have passed that period. We feel there is a need to increase the number of state seats which is why it was tabled in Sarawak.

However, I have expressed concern that time may be running short for the proposal to be implemented before the next state election. The next parliamentary sitting will be in July. Even if it is tabled and endorsed, there are still procedures and processes, including public display for the redelineation exercise. Looking at the time now, I have some doubt whether it can go through in time. I have warned that if approval is not secured before the upcoming state election, Sarawak may have to wait another full electoral cycle before the additional seats can be implemented. If it is only passed later, then we may only have it for the next state election after this one and that will be a long time.

My comments and views on speculation of timing for the impending Sarawak State Elections

There were talks and speculation on the timing of exactly when the next Sarawak state election will be held but the matter shall remains\ the prerogative of our right honourable Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg. As the Information Chief of Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) Sarawak, I was asked to comment by our media friends on Deputy Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian’s remarks on the forthcoming election that may be called within the next 100 days. 

To me, the statement was Dr Sim’s personal assessment based on the current political landscape. The only person who can roughly indicate when the election will be held is the Premier of Sarawak. The prerogative and discretion are on him as to when he wants to dissolve the State Legislative Assembly. In general, all political parties in Sarawak are aware that the election must be held this year as the current State Legislative Assembly term expires by early 2027. 

We do not need to worry too much because we are already halfway through the year. Whether it is GPS or the opposition, by now they should already have everything in hand and be prepared for the election. While I personally did not think the state election would necessarily be held within the next 100 days, such a timeline could not be ruled out given developments in Peninsular Malaysia. It can happen. The key is in the Premier’s hands.

I have pointed out that recent political developments, including the dissolution of state assemblies in Johor and Negeri Sembilan and the possibility of more states following suit, could influence election planning nationwide. If more states are going for elections, it may be better to hold them together with the general election to save costs. I have added that organising separate state and parliamentary elections within a short period would incur significantly higher expenses compared to conducting them simultaneously.

For Sarawak, if the election is called this month, we are well prepared and that Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) shall remain confident of retaining its power. At the same time, it was normal for political parties to introduce new faces in elections, noting that candidate renewal is part of the grooming process for future leadership. 

In every election will see some candidates dropped and some new faces introduced. That is part of the responsibility of every party. On another matter, I have expressed doubts for Sarawak’s proposal to increase the number of state seats from 82 to 99 could be implemented before the coming election. Even though the motion, which was passed by the Sarawak Legislative Assembly last year, it still requires endorsement at the federal level before the delineation process can proceed. Looking at the time available and the procedures involved, I have my doubts that it can go through before the next state election.

Representing our right honourable Premier of Sarawak at the ongoing State Legislative Assembly Sitting

At the ongoing Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) session, I had also represented our right honorable Premier of Sarawak in answering several questions that were submitted by fellow elected representatives who were present in the session.

Among the matters which I have presented were on the 5,776 applications for identification documents involving undocumented individuals throughout the state that were approved through the “Program Pemutihan Warganegara” implemented by the state’s Special Task Force together with the National Registration Department (JPN).

Among the matters which I have presented were on the 5,776 applications for identification documents involving undocumented individuals throughout the state that were approved through the “Program Pemutihan Warganegara” implemented by the state’s Special Task Force together with the National Registration Department (JPN).

The approval of applications were decided at the recent taskforce’s Main Committee Meeting chaired by our Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail on 20 January this year.

A total of 13,224 applications were received including requests of various forms of identification from throughout Sarawak.For the Bukit Semuja State Legislative Assembly (DUN) area which covers the Serian and Siburan districts, a total of 339 applications were received and processed.

Of these, 84 applications have been approved and will be issued with identification documents, 242 applications were unsuccessful, while 13 more applications are still under further investigation. The information I have presented was to answer the oral question from the honourable Encik John Ilus, the State Assemblyman (ADUN) for Bukit Semuja.

Of the 13,224 applications received, 5,776 applicants (44%) have been approved, while 6,733 (51%) have been rejected and the remaining 715 (5%) require further investigation. The 4 criteria for applications that cannot be approved are birth certificate holders less than 12 years old, MyKAS holders, MyPR/Passport holders and no birth documents outside Sarawak.

Meanwhile, the categories of applications that require further investigation had involved incomplete application documents and DNA tests. Regarding the application category for residents who do not have identification documents, there are 7 categories, namely Without Identification Documents, Birth Certificate Holders Over 12 Years Old, Birth Certificate Holders Under 12 Years Old, MyKAS Holders, MyPR/Passport Holders, No Birth Documents Outside Sarawak and Others.