Sarawak’s Ibu Pertiwi flagpole now iconic, silencing critics and doubters, says Premier

The Sarawak flag at Dataran Ibu Pertiwiku waves majestically against a serene blue sky. Photo credit: Karen Bong

By Karen Bong

KUCHING, Aug 1: The majestic Ibu Pertiwi flagpole has resoundingly silenced critics and proved doubters wrong as today, the RM28 million Dataran Ibu Pertiwi has emerged as an iconic landmark, even serving as a popular backdrop for wedding photos.

At the 36th anniversary celebration of Kuching City held at Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Square today, Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg highlighted the project’s success in attracting visitors and tourists alike.

“From romantic dates to weddings, people are capturing moments at this landmark.

“The area has been beautifully transformed and has become a premier destination for both tourists and locals,” Abang Johari remarked, addressing the naysayers with a touch of humour.

He expressed appreciation to Shell, Petroliam Nasional Berhad (PETRONAS), and Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (Petros) for their financial contributions to the project.

Abang Johari (third left) pointing at an uniquely crafted cat made from recycled materials being displayed at MBKS lobby after officiating Kuching City 36th anniversary celebration. Also seen (from right) are Juma’ani, Hilmi, Dr Abdul Rahman, Wee and Dr Sim.

The Premier’s wife Datuk Amar Juma’ani Tuanku Bujang, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Deputy Minister of Utility Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, Deputy Minister of Energy and Environment Sustainability Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni, MBKS Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng, and Kuching North City Council (DBKU) Mayor Hilmi Othman were among those present.

Initially met with skepticism when announced in January 2023, the RM28 million initiative was undertaken as part of corporate social responsibility in celebration of the 60th anniversary of Sarawak Day.

Standing 99 meters tall, the flagpole was officially inaugurated during the 2024 New Year Countdown celebration at Kuching Waterfront on Dec 31, 2023.

It was later recognised by the Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) as the tallest flagpole in Malaysia and Southeast Asia on Jan 1, 2024.

The project also involved the beautification of the Fort Margherita area, the creation of a traditional English teahouse, and the installation of a monument depicting Sarawak’s economic development history, funded by Petros, Petronas, and Shell.

The flagpole not only represents Sarawak’s pride and aspirations but also stands as a symbol of unity, bridging diverse ethnicities, religions, and backgrounds. — DayakDaily