KUCHING: The ‘Kembara Kenali Borneo’ expedition should serve as a pivotal and transformative step towards development agendas in both Sarawak and Sabah, aimed at enhancing ties.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said the economy, infrastructure, such as roads and transportation by land and sea, education, and access to a better quality of life for the future, are all areas that will benefit from the tour.
“Together, we will assess and take action to enhance the quality of life of the people of Sarawak and Sabah, enabling progress to be on par with other states in the peninsula,” he said in a statement today.
Fadillah, who is Petra Jaya MP, noted that the tour also highlighted the unity between the common people and the monarch, adding that people from diverse backgrounds in Sarawak and Sabah have shown remarkable dedication.
“They not only waited from morning till night but also endured the heat and rain along the convoy route of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
“They also willingly showcased various cultural performances and wore their traditional attire.
“Even in areas without streetlights, they used their mobile phones’ flashlights to welcome the royal convoy,” he said.
He added that their devotion moved the Raja Permaisuri Agong to tears on several occasions, and the Yang di-Pertuan Agong expressed deep gratitude to the extraordinary reception from the people of Sabah and Sarawak.
Fadillah said the expedition is sure to leave a lasting impact on the people.
He noted how Their Majesties approached and embraced ordinary citizens with utmost simplicity, devoid of any protocols, displaying great generosity and a true connection with the people, while also delving into the hardships and needs of rural communities.
“A million thanks to the Istana Negara, the governments of Sabah and Sarawak, and the common people who expressed their support and shared their joy throughout this journey, as well as to all those who contributed to the success of this expedition.
“May His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Her Majesty the Raja Permaisuri Agong, and their entire royal family always be blessed, have long and prosperous lives, and receive Allah’s grace.
“Daulat Tuanku, we humbly respect His Majesty for graciously joining the common people on this journey,” said Fadillah.
The ‘Kembara Kenali Borneo’ tour began at KM 0 Tawau, Sabah, and concluded yesterday (Sept 13) at KM 0 Telok Melano, Sarawak.
