COMMENT | This was my note to friends last month on July 22, the day Sarawak celebrated its Independence Day.

"A note of thanks and appreciation to all my friends who have sent me 'Happy Sarawak Day' messages.

"To me, whatever day is meaningless if Sarawak is not governed justly, with integrity and compassion, and the rights and needs of Sarawakians of different cultures, races and creeds are taken care of. If that is achieved, then every day is a celebration."

My sentiments remain the same as we approach Hari Merdeka on Aug 31 and Malaysia Day on Sept 16.

I understand there will be no elaborate celebrations on these two auspicious occasions this year as we continue to battle the Covid-19 pandemic. The recovery movement control order has been extended till Dec 31, and all of us have to sit tight till the storm is over.

Nonetheless, we have been reminded by our leaders time and again to celebrate our nation's rich diversities and cherish...