Sarawak Premier names state flag “Ibu Pertiwi”

Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg revealed the new name for the state flag, ‘Ibu Pertiwi’ (motherland), during the state-level New Year’s Eve celebration at Kuching Waterfront.

This declaration carries profound significance, symbolising the sovereignty and greatness of Sarawak.

‘Ibu Pertiwi’ symbolises Sarawak’s sovereignty

Premier Abang Johari Tun Openg highlighted the significance of ‘Ibu Pertiwi’ as the official name for the Sarawak state flag, Bernama reported.

He stated, “Ibu Pertiwi signifies the sovereignty of Sarawak; it also represents the greatness of the state with the colours (of the flag) of red, black and yellow.”

He said before this, the Sarawak flag did not have a distinct name like the Malaysian flag, the ‘Jalur Gemilang’.

“All Sarawakians must be determined to work hard to defend the motherland and together develop this state to greater heights,” he said.

Malaysia’s tallest flag pole and iconic landmark

The flagpole is part of an expansive new square project, promising to become an iconic landmark in Kuching.

Minister Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah earlier stated, “The monument, set to become an iconic landmark in Kuching, promises to captivate both local and international tourists, providing a picturesque backdrop for photos.”

The 99-metre flagpole, a private sector initiative funded as a corporate social responsibility project, stands between the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) Complex and Fort Margherita.

Managed by DBKU and constructed by KKB Engineering Berhad, the flagpole carries the Sarawak flag, making it the state’s latest iconic landmark, surpassing the country’s previous tallest flagpole at Merdeka Square in Kuala Lumpur by four metres.

The New Year’s Eve celebration, themed ‘Let’s Celebrate Together,’ was marked by various activities, including stage performances, fireworks shows, and a New Year countdown.

Renowned local artistes, including Datuk Amy Search, Datuk Zainal Abidin, Hael Husaini, Floor 88, and DeFam, graced the evening with their performances.

The unveiling of the towering 99-metre flagpole by Premier Abang Johari Tun Openg marked a historic moment, symbolising Sarawak’s commitment to commemorate its significant role in the formation of Malaysia.