KUCHING: The celebration of the 60th Anniversary of Sarawak Independence was taken to new heights as Samling Timber Malaysia emerged as the undisputed champion of the decorated boat competition, walking away with a prestigious cash prize of RM10,000.
The enchanting event, which unfolded along the Kuching Waterfront last night (July 29), witnessed an impressive display of creativity and craftsmanship.
The Office of the Premier of Sarawak (OPS) secured an honourable second place, while the Ministry of Transport Sarawak (MOTS) proudly claimed the third spot on the winners’ podium.
Both OPS and MOTS were rewarded with cash prizes worth RM7,000 and RM5,000, respectively.
Adding to the excitement, seven other participants were recognized for their outstanding efforts with consolation prizes, each receiving RM3,000 in cash.
The evening commenced with great anticipation, as Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, accompanied by his wife Datuk Amar Juma’ani Tun Tuanku Bujang, officially inaugurated the event.
The breathtaking display featured 20 exquisitely decorated boats parading gracefully along the river, setting sail from Pengkalan Abok and captivating the hearts of thousands of spectators who gathered to witness the spectacle.
Among the participants who contributed to the evening’s splendour were the Ministry of Natural Resources and Urban Development (MUDENR), Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication (MUT), Ministry of International Trade, Industry, and Investment (MINTRED), Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development (MYSED), Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts (MTCP), Ministry of Infrastructure and Port Development (MIPD), Ministry of Public Health, Housing, and Local Government (MPHLG), Ministry of Food Industry, Commodity, and Regional Development (MFICORD), Shin Yang Groups Of Companies, Ministry of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development (MEITD), Ministry of Women, Community Wellbeing, and Childhood Development (KPWK), Ministry of Energy, and Environmental Sustainability (MEESty), Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB), Bintulu Port Holdings Berhad (BPHB), Kuching North City Commission (DBKU), Sarawak Energy Development Corporation (SEDC), and Regional Corridor Development Authority (RECODA).
The captivating evening was further enriched by a stunning performance from the Sarawak Coast Guard of Sarawak Security and Enforcement Unit (UKPS), an awe-inspiring parade of decorated perahu tambang, and a grand display of fireworks that illuminated the night sky with vibrant colours and cheers of joy.
