Birthday of the Governor of Sarawak in Malaysia

The Birthday of the Governor of Sarawak, also known as the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak's Birthday, is an annual public holiday in the Malaysian state of Sarawak. It is a day that commemorates the official birthday of the serving Governor, or Yang di-Pertua Negeri.

History

The position of Governor, or Yang di-Pertua Negeri, was established when Sarawak joined Malaysia in 1963. The office is largely ceremonial, with the Governor serving as a constitutional head while executive power rests with the state government headed by the Chief Minister. The celebration of the Governor's birthday has been a tradition since then and serves to honor the incumbent's service.

Traditions

On this day, various official celebrations take place:

• Award Ceremonies: The Governor may bestow state honors and awards upon deserving individuals who have served Sarawak and contributed to its development.
• Parades and Cultural Performances: Military parades or cultural performances highlighting Sarawak's diverse heritage can be part of the festivities.
• Official Receptions: A formal reception is often held at the Astana, the official residence of the Yang di-Pertua Negeri.

Public Activities

While there are formal ceremonies for officials, citizens also engage in various activities on this public holiday:

• Social Gatherings: Families and friends may come together to enjoy a day off from work.
• Recreational Activities: People might participate in recreational activities or visit local attractions.

It should be noted that while it is celebrated as a public holiday in Sarawak, other states in Malaysia do not observe it. The date can vary depending on who holds office as Yang di-Pertua Negeri and might be subject to change; therefore, it does not necessarily coincide with his actual date of birth.