It's all systems go for Malaysia Day celebration in Sibu - Saifuddin

Everything is in place for the hosting of the Malaysia Day celebration at the Sibu Indoor Stadium on Sept 16, said Communications and Multimedia Minister Datuk Saifuddin Abdullah.

Speaking to reporters after co-chairing the 2020 Malaysia Day celebration main committee meeting with Sarawak Utility Minister Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom here today, he said he was satisfied with preparations made by the various federal and state government agencies.

"We paid a courtesy call on the (Sarawak) Yang Dipertua Negeri, Tun Abdul Taib Mahmud to invite him to grace the celebration," said Saifuddin.

He added that Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, Sarawak Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg, Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Shafie Apdal and all the other Federal Cabinet ministers would be present at the celebration.

The number of guests will be limited to 500 people and they will all have to adhere to the stipulated standard operating procedures (SOPs) to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Saifuddin also encouraged all Malaysians, especially those in Sarawak, to watch the celebration on television as it would be broadcast live by RTM.

Stephen Rundi shared the same view, saying: "It is not that we do not want people to come and join the celebration but, in view of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are taking all precautionary measures to prevent it from spreading or creating a new cluster.

Asked about the highlights of the celebration, he said there would be stage performances and video presentations that would project the people's appreciation towards the formation of Malaysia.

"All the performances will picture the unity that we have in this country. I cannot disclose in detail as it will no longer be a surprise. So watch it live on RTM," he said.

-- BERNAMA