“Last year she was here, this year she’s not” – Premier says no Hari Raya open house as he mourns late wife

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By Shikin Louis

KUCHING, March 6: Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has revealed he will not be holding his usual Hari Raya open house this year, citing the absence of his late wife Datuk Amar Juma’ani Tuanku Bujang.

Speaking during the Sumbangsih Raya 2026 programme held at Satria Pertiwi Complex today, Abang Johari apologised to the public over the matter.

“Last year she was here. This year, she’s not. So, I wish to apologise that I will not be hosting an open house this year.

“I will celebrate quietly with my children, Dato Abang Abdillah Izzarimi and Dayang Norjihan, and their spouses.

“Since my late wife is no longer around, ‘jaik ati juak lah’ (it just doesn’t feel right),” he said. An audio recording of his speech was later shared with DayakDaily.

Despite the somber tone, Abang Johari extended Hari Raya greetings on behalf of his family.

“Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Maaf Zahir dan Batin. May our State continue to enjoy peace, may our government fulfil its responsibilities, and may blessings and prosperity grow for Sarawak,” he added.

Juma’ani passed away at age 76 on June 23, 2025, corresponding to 26 Zulhijjah 1446H. She died at 3.34am at the Normah Medical Specialist Centre in Kuching and was buried at the Samariang Muslim Cemetery.

Earlier, Abang Johari shared a personal anecdote about his late wife’s love for Kolo Mee, which influenced this year’s Sumbangsih Raya aid menu.

“Thanks to Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah (Sarawak Minister for Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development) for organising this event.

“Alhamdulillah, Kolo Mee is included. It wasn’t my idea — my late wife asked for it. She said, ‘Why is there no Kolo Mee?’ That’s when I decided to include it,” he added, noting he had visited her grave earlier in the day. — DayakDaily

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