- Categories:
- Federal
- Tags:
- HistoricalMilitary
- Where:
- Malaysia
- Date change rule:
- Every July 22
- Holiday emoji:
- 🇲🇾
Sarawak Day commemorates the state of Sarawak’s self-governance within Malaysia every July 22. This significant public holiday honors the region’s rich history and its journey to sovereignty. Join in celebrating Sarawak’s unique heritage, learn about its past, and participate in community events.
Want to sponsor Sarawak Day? Learn how
Expected Sarawak Day Deals
As a day of historical recognition in Malaysia, Sarawak Day typically emphasizes civic pride and community engagement rather than commercial deals. Local businesses often host cultural performances, historical exhibitions, and educational programs. Government agencies and cultural institutions may offer free entry or special events to highlight Sarawak’s heritage. Look for community gatherings, parades, and public forums discussing the state’s journey to self-governance. We will update this page with confirmed live events and programs as July 22 approaches.
Platform Guide for Sarawak Day
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #SarawakDay. Share historical photos or personal reflections on Sarawak’s heritage.
X/Twitter
Mention @NatlToday and use #SarawakDay. Discuss the significance of self-governance and share news about local celebrations.
Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #SarawakDay. Highlight the economic and social progress of Sarawak since 1963.
Sarawak Day Hero
Stephen Kalong Ningkan
History of Sarawak Day
In 1841, the Sultanate of Brunei passed on power over the Raj of Sarawak to the British Brooke Dynasty. Sarawak was recognized as a sovereign nation by the United States and the British, becoming a British protectorate. Towards the end of the Second World War, Sarawak was administered by the British Military for a short period before becoming a full-fledged Crown Colony in 1946. Sarawak was then handed over to the British Crown by the Brookes. This transfer, and resulting demotion to the state of a colony, was met by major protests from the Sarawakian people, who demanded independence. Rosli Dhobi, a revolutionary, subsequently assassinated the second governor of Sarawak, Duncan Stewart. Dhobi was tried and hanged for the act. Stewart was succeeded by Anthony Abell.
The Cobbold Commission, of which Abell was a part, eventually granted Sarawak de facto statehood on the condition that the state should join the Federation of Malaysia in September 1963. Before leaving the state, Alexander Waddel, the Governor of the state, handed power over to the first Sarawakian Chief Minister, Stephen Kalong Ningkan, along with the new members of the Supreme Council.
In 2016, July 22 was officially announced as a public holiday, known as ‘Sarawak Independence Day,’ under the purview of Chief Minister Adenan Satem. Today, the holiday is a reminder of Sarawak’s long-standing brush with the British and the eventual attainment of its own statehood.
Sarawak Day timeline
The Raj of Sarawak is passed over to the Brooke Dynasty.
Sarawak is made a British colony.
Sarawak gains independence and de facto statehood.
Sarawak Independence Day is announced as a public holiday.
How Businesses Can Celebrate Sarawak Day
Local businesses in Sarawak can honor Sarawak Day by showcasing their state pride and supporting community initiatives. Restaurants might offer special menus featuring traditional Sarawakian dishes, while retailers could highlight products made by local artisans. Businesses can also sponsor or participate in cultural events, historical exhibitions, or educational talks that celebrate Sarawak’s rich heritage and journey to self-governance. Engaging employees in local volunteer efforts or organizing internal awareness campaigns about the state’s history also fosters a sense of collective identity.
Sarawak Day FAQs
When is Sarawak Day?
Sarawak Day 2026 falls on Wednesday, July 22, marking the annual celebration of the state’s self-governance.
What is the historical significance of Sarawak Day?
Sarawak Day commemorates July 22, 1963, when the state of Sarawak achieved self-governance from British colonial rule. This pivotal moment preceded its formation as a member of the Malaysian Federation.
Is Sarawak Day a public holiday in Malaysia?
Yes, Sarawak Day is a public holiday observed specifically within the state of Sarawak, Malaysia. It was officially declared a public holiday in 2016.
How is Sarawak Day typically celebrated?
Celebrations often include official ceremonies, cultural performances, and parades across Sarawak. Communities gather to reflect on the state’s history and its journey towards self-determination.
How to Observe Sarawak Day
Read about Sarawakian history
Sarawak has a history of colonialism and a struggle for statehood. Spend the day reading about them.
Read about British imperialism
British imperialism had a drastic impact on people across the globe. Read about it to understand the true extent of the repercussions people are still dealing with.
Visit Sarawak
Sarawak is in Malaysia. If it’s within your means, visit the state.
5 Interesting Facts About Sarawak
Climate
Sarawak has an equatorial climate
Hornbills
Sarawak is home to eight species of hornbill.
Size
Sarawak is the largest state in Malaysia,
Official languages
The official languages of Sarawak are English and Malay.
Capital city
The capital city is called Kuching.
Why Sarawak Day is Important
It highlights an important part of the state’s history
Sarawak Day is a reminder of its people’s struggle for sovereignty. It is important to never forget that.
It highlights how recent colonialism was
Colonialism may sound like a relic of days gone but many people in the Global South still suffer from its very recent existence. That is very important to remember.
It celebrates the aspirations of a people
Sarawak Independence Day celebrates the realization of the aspirations of a future. We think that it is a perfect opportunity for festivities.
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