5,000 to 10,000 are expected to celebrate TYT's birthday.

KUCHING, 8 Oct: About 5,000 to 10,000 visitors are expected to flood the Merdeka Plain to mark the 80th Birthday of Sarawak's elderly Chief Minister Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar on Saturday.

Sarawak Utility and Telecommunications Minister, Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi said that the reception is expected to bring together communities from different races, religions and backgrounds as a tribute to Yang di-Pertuan Negeri, in addition to reflecting the unity of the people of Sarawak.

"The elaborate preparations for the celebration are at a satisfactory level based on today's raptai, with hopes that the event will go smoothly in real time", he said.

He, who was also the minister responsible for the ceremony, said this when he met with the media after attending a full reception today.

According to Julaihi, road network facilities including the Pan Borneo Highway and bridge construction also facilitate people from various areas of Sarawak to attend the celebration.

In this regard, he welcomed the presence of all sections of society especially people around Kuching, to join in celebrating the morning.

In addition to the official event, people also had the opportunity to attend the Folk Concert which will be held in Padang Merdeka at midnight.

"This reception is not only a tribute to the Yang di-Pertua of Sarawak State, but also reflects the harmony and spirit of unity among the multi-racial communities in the state", he said.

Meanwhile, Julaihi assured that security aspects will be taken into consideration with the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM), the Malaysian Army (ATM) and related agencies being always on standby to ensure smoothness of reception.

He hoped that the celebration would take place in a safe, harmonious and peaceful atmosphere, in line with Sarawak culture.