KUCHING: A total of 1,457 police personnel will be assigned with security and safety duties throughout Sarawak’s 60 years of Independence celebration from May 26 to Aug 19.
Sarawak Police Commissioner Datuk Mohd Azman Ahmad Sapri said the
duties and responsibilities of the police are to conduct proper VVIP security control especially during the programme themed “Sarawak Maju Makmur”.
“In addition, the police will also have crime prevention tasks, security intelligence, public safety control, traffic control, water control and air control by drones,” he said.
Azman pointed out that all formation leaders and district police chiefs have been instructed to make preliminary preparations, which will cover the needs of human resources and the assets that will be used.
In addition, they have also been instructed to always coordinate and cooperate with the residents and district officials to determine that all events that will be held can be carried out smoothly and in an orderly manner without any disruption.
The programme will also include 10 main events namely Sarawak Merdeka Convoy, the Digital Exhibition of Sarawak’s 60 years, the state-level Gawai Dayak festival, a thanksgiving ceremony, gatherings and parades as well as commemorative medal presentations.
Aside from that, there will also be a state banquet, a folk concert and fireworks display, a parade of decorated boats and a street parade.
“The Merdeka convoy will begin from May 28 to July 22, involving 12 divisions from Limbang to Kuching.
“Likewise, with the digital exhibition of Sarawak’s 60 years, which will take place on the same dates in all 12 divisions,” he said.
Meanwhile, for the thanksgiving ceremony, it will be held on July 21 and involves mosques and houses of worship in all divisions.
Azman stated that the peak of the programme is the gathering and parade, which will be held on July 22 at Padang Merdeka in Kuching.
On July 22, there will be a commemorative medal presentation at the Waterfront Hotel, a state banquet at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) building as well as a folk concert and fireworks display at Padang Merdeka, Kuching.
On July 29, there will be a parade of decorated ships on the banks of Sarawak River.
The last activity – street parades will be held in Kuching, Sibu and Miri on Aug 5, Aug 12 and Aug 19 respectively.
In view of the programme, Azman advised the public, especially those involved in the activities, to prioritise personal safety and obey the marshall’s instructions.
“They are also urged to comply with all instructions issued by the authorities to always take care of personal safety and belongings while attending the activities.
“They should also not feel worried as the police will be present to ensure the safety of all visitors,” he said.
