LETTER | Sarawak Independence Day (also known as Sarawak Day) is an occasion celebrated on July 22 each year by the state of Sarawak in Malaysia, to commemorate the establishment of self-government and de facto independence on July 22, 1963.

Sarawak was given its own mandate that day, with the expectation that it would form the Federation of Malaysia on Sept 16 of the same year.

It is said that before the ceremony on July 22, 1963, Alexander Waddell, the last Governor of the colony, left the Astana and boarded a white sampan to cross the Sarawak River, then handed the administration of Sarawak to the Sarawakian citizens.

Hence, this is a historic day for the people of Sarawak after so long been colonised by the "British Colony Crown". People of different races, ethnicities, cultures, and religions Sarawak can live in peace without provocation.

We can work together and live harmoniously even though we have different languages, cultures, and religions.

This is the uniqueness of the people of Sarawak who have various races, and religions can live in peace and prosperity.

Sarawak can be an example for other countries of different races, languages, and religions that in Sarawak the people can live peacefully as in a large family.

Now, the important phase for all the people of Sarawak is to remain united, and reject the culture of slander, provocation, incitement, and racism brought by certain groups.

Similarly with extreme political culture, breaches of promises, chauvinism, sex scandals, bribes scandals, and all personal interests to seize positions by installing cronies.

We want Sarawak to be totally free from extreme foreign cultures that do not fit in with local cultures that practice harmonious and mutual respect to each other.

Happy Sarawak Independence Day to all the people of Sarawak, regardless of race, religion and political affiliation.

JOFRI JARAIEE is the Sarawak PAS commissioner and Miri PAS division chief.