Public suggests iconic flagpole name

KUCHING: When it comes to naming a monument, it can either be humorously entertaining or incredibly serious. This was the case for the tallest flagpole in Southeast Asia and Malaysia.

Ashley Tan

One member of the public, Ashley Tan, thought the name ‘Sarawak Unity’ would be fitting and suitable.

“The name would serve as a reminder of Sarawak’s commitment to emphasising harmony and strength derived from the cultural diversity and unity within Sarawak,” he said.

Another, 24-year-old Nicole Frankie, told New Sarawak Tribune that she would have suggested the name for the flagpole as ‘Sarawak’s Pride’ or ‘Kebanggaan Sarawak’.

Nicole Frankie

“The reason why I would name the flag as Sarawak’s Pride is because every time people go back home from overseas or outside Sarawak, the flagpole would be the number one landmark that people would proudly talk about,” she said.

Janice Tan, 29, suggested ‘Colours of Kenyalang’ would be suitable, as the flag flying high would showcase the proud colours of the hornbill.

Janice Tan

She said the ‘Land of the Hornbill,’ as Sarawak is uniquely known, symbolises the proud people of the land, signifying the wonderful multiracial society that Sarawak has.

Meanwhile, Emma Maria had a unique suggestion for the flagpole’s name, calling it ‘Pokok Kucieng’, a name in the Kayan language which translates to ‘Cat Tree’.

Emma Maria

According to her, this would symbolise the city’s name as a cat and a tree, demonstrating the wonderful layers of race, religion, and background, yet still standing together in unity.

In the past, there have been several public controversies regarding why the flagpole was built. However, today, it stands proudly between the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) and Fort Margherita.

Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah recently said that the announcement would be made by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg on today (Dec 31). The event will introduce the names for the monumental flagpole and the encompassing square.