‘Ibu Pertiwi’ flag-raising ceremony to become monthly cultural highlight in Kuching

KUCHING (Sept 8): The ceremony to raise the Sarawak flag, ‘Ibu Pertiwi’, at Dataran Ibu Pertiwi here is set to become a prominent and permanent feature in the city’s cultural calendar, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah.

He emphasised that the event, organised by the Kuching North City Commission (DBKU), symbolises pride for Sarawak.

“This morning’s flag-raising ceremony is deeply significant, as it reflects our pride in Sarawak. That’s why DBKU is organising this event on a monthly basis.

“Soon, it will become a permanent event and is expected to attract tourists. Although there are no tourists today, we believe this event will be a plus point for Kuching, showcasing this special landmark where the ‘Ibu Pertiwi’ flag proudly flies, symbolising our pride in Sarawak,” he told reporters when met after officiating the ceremony today.

To ensure this becomes a reality, Uggah said that the ceremony, set to take place on the first Sunday of every month since last month, needs more intensive promotion to attract visitors, especially international tourists.

“I was told that plans are in place to increase publicity. I’m confident many tourists will take notice, as the flag can be seen from all corners of Kuching. To come here is also not an issue,” he added.

The event, organised to ensure the orderly changing and raising of the Sarawak flag at the tallest flagpole in Southeast Asia, was further enlivened today by a band performance, enhancing to the celebration of Sarawak’s sovereignty.

Also present were Deputy Ministers of Infrastructure and Port Development Datuk Ir Aidel Lariwoo and Datuk Majang Renggi, and Kuching North Datuk Bandar Hilmy Othman.