Sarawak Day: “Ibu Pertiwiku” Elevates Identity Of The Land Of The Hornbills In Malaysia

By Hamdan Ismail

KUCHING, July 21 (Bernama) -- A line from the Sarawak state anthem, "Ibu Pertiwiku," is a fitting reminder, especially as the people of the Land of the Hornbills celebrate Sarawak Day tomorrow (July 22).

"Sarawak dalam Malaysia, aman makmur rahmat Tuhan maha esa (Sarawak, a part of Malaysia, blessed by God with peace and prosperity)" is a line from the lyrics of the state's anthem, which has been played at every official event held in this Land of the Hornbills since 1988.

Out of all the states and territories in this country, "Ibu Pertiwiku" is the only state anthem that contains the word "Malaysia" in its lyrics.

This verse is not just an ordinary line of lyrics, but a declaration that reflects Sarawak's unique identity as a state proud of its heritage, yet at the same time, firmly bound within the Federation of Malaysia.

It outlines Sarawak's acceptance and commitment to the formation of Malaysia in 1963, while still preserving the agreed-upon sovereignty and autonomy.

For National Council of Professors senior fellow Datuk Dr Jeniri Amir, the word 'Malaysia' in the lyrics of the Sarawak state anthem is very significant because it is a clear reflection that the state spirit can unite with a broader national consciousness.

According to him, the lyrics show how the leaders and people of this Land of the Hornbills are always fully aware that Sarawak is part of Malaysia and the importance of moving forward together within the context of a federation.

"Awareness of the importance of Sarawak moving in tandem within the context of a federation is very important, not only to strengthen unity at the state level, but also the spirit of federalism and unity at the national level," he told Bernama.

He said the lyrics serve as a tool to unite people from the various states, races and cultures under one national identity, while also reminding them that states are not isolated and competing entities, but rather parts that complement nation building.

“The meaning of the lyrics is so symbolic and significant. To unite all Malaysians under one banner, while maintaining the pride of the state of Sarawak, or the spirit of the state of Sarawak," he said.

The celebration of Sarawak Day serves as an important platform to strengthen this narrative.

These lyrics not only acknowledge Sarawak's status as part of Malaysia but also support the hope that the state will continue to remain peaceful and prosperous within the larger federal framework.

This also highlights the uniqueness of Sarawak's history, which, unlike the states in Peninsular Malaysia that achieved independence through the end of British colonisation, chose to form Malaysia as a path to its absolute sovereignty.

These lines of the lyrics are a reminder of the agreement reached and the shared spirit embodied when Sarawak chose to join Sabah, Malaya and Singapore to form Malaysia.

July 22, 1963, is a significant date in the history of the Land of the Hornbills, as Sarawak was granted self-governance by the British, before the formation of Malaysia was declared on Sept 16 of that year.

Sarawak Day is not just a celebratory event, but a time for its people to reflect on the state's historical journey from the Brooke era, through colonial times, to self-governance and the formation of Malaysia.

It is an opportunity to understand the struggles and negotiations that led to Sarawak's current status, as well as to strengthen a sense of pride in Sarawak's cultural uniqueness, traditions, and ethnic diversity, which must continue to be preserved and respected.

This celebration brings hope that the spirit of unity and commitment to the Malaysian federation will remain fresh, and serves as a platform to remind every citizen that Malaysia's strength lies in the unity and contribution of each state, including Sarawak.

Sarawak Day should be a moment to reflect on the future aspirations of the Land of the Hornbills within the framework of Malaysia's development, particularly in achieving developed state status by 2030 and contributing to the overall progress of the country.

This is reflected in "Ibu Pertiwiku," which features lyrics that foster a spirit of unity in diversity as the cornerstone of Malaysia's strength, and Sarawak as a state that can unite with a larger national spirit.

Happy Sarawak Day!

-- BERNAMA