Heartfelt tribute to Wan Junaidi on his birthday

By Dayang Milliana and Eszryeen Kris

FOR many Sarawakians, Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar is remembered not merely for the distinguished positions he has held, but also for his contributions to the State and the lasting impact of his public service.

As he celebrates his 80^th official birthday with a four-day statewide and public programme, Sarawakians from various walks of life have come forward to express their heartfelt appreciation for his dedication, leadership and contributions to the State.

Shanice

Among them is teacher Shanice Premmi Suresh, 27, who added a personal touch to her birthday tribute by conveying her warm wishes to the Head of State in Tamil.

“Iniya Pirandhanaal Nalvaazhthukkal! Maanbumigu TYT Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar avargalukku iniya pirandhanaal nalvaazhthukkal!” she said.

Shanice expressed admiration for Wan Junaidi’s commitment to social and religious inclusivity, multi-ethnic harmony and educational initiatives benefiting students across Sarawak.

She hoped Sarawak would continue to prosper under leadership guided by integrity, transparency and accountability.

Helmi and Hasanah together with Head of State and Toh Puan.

Meanwhile, husband-and-wife entrepreneurs Helmi Ali Al Arashi, 56, co-founder of Lamar HH Sdn Bhd, and Hasanah Salleh, 52, the company’s founder, also extended their warmest birthday wishes to the Head of State.

The couple recalled the honour of welcoming Wan Junaidi to their restaurant on several occasions, describing his visits as cherished moments for their establishment.

“May Allah SWT bless Your Excellency with continued good health, happiness, wisdom and longevity, and may Your Excellency continue to lead Sarawak with strength and dedication,” they said.

They also conveyed their highest respect and heartfelt appreciation, wishing him many more years of good health and happiness.

Chan

Insurance consultant and manager Aaron Chan Kwok Hui, 24, extended his birthday wishes to Wan Junaidi, wishing him continued good health, happiness and wisdom in serving the people of Sarawak.

“As a young Sarawakian, I am grateful for the many years he has dedicated to our state and country, and I wish him many more meaningful years ahead,” he said.

Chan expressed admiration for Wan Junaidi’s decades of public service, spanning his career in the police force, legal profession, Parliament and Federal Cabinet before assuming the role of Head of State.

He said Wan Junaidi’s concern for insurance policyholders and rising healthcare costs particularly resonated with him as a professional in the insurance and financial protection industry.

“Insurance is ultimately about giving families financial security when something unexpected happens,” he said.

Chan also hoped Wan Junaidi would continue inspiring younger Sarawakians to contribute to society and play their part in building a stronger Sarawak.

Lucy

Meanwhile, housewife Lucy Pit Empua, 61, expressed admiration for Wan Junaidi’s dedication, experience and longstanding commitment to public service.

“I particularly remember his dedication to serving Sarawak and its people throughout his years of public service. His commitment and contributions to the state are something I truly respect and appreciate,” she said.

Lucy also wished the Head of State continued good health and happiness, expressing hope that he would remain a source of inspiration to Sarawakians.

Eminia

Safety officer Eminia Tasha, 33, described Wan Junaidi as a forward-thinking, knowledgeable and approachable leader who remained close to the people.

“If you ask me why I admire him, it is because he is a forward-thinking and knowledgeable person. He is also a leader who is close to the people and approachable,” she said.

Eminia extended her birthday wishes to the Head of State and expressed hope for greater emphasis on education, particularly for children in rural Sarawak.

Oman

Meanwhile, pensioner Oman Karim, 61, recalled Wan Junaidi’s efforts to explain the history and significance of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) during his tenure as Minister of Law and Parliamentary Affairs.

He said Wan Junaidi’s explanations helped deepen public understanding of MA63 and its importance to Sarawak.

“There are simply too many things to say about Tun’s contributions and service to Sarawak. Words alone cannot adequately express the respect and appreciation felt by many of us,” he said.

Oman also wished Wan Junaidi and his family continued good health, happiness and peace, while hoping he would continue serving Sarawak for many years to come.