Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sarawak

The Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak in English is Governor of Sarawak, is the ceremonial head of state of Sarawak. The Yang di-Pertua Negeri is styled Tuan Yang Terutama (lit. 'His Excellency'). The official residence of the governor is The Astana, located on the north bank of the Sarawak River in Kuching.

Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar has been the Yang di-Pertua Negeri since 26 January 2024.

Appointment
The office of the governor is established by article 1(1) of the Constitution of Sarawak. The position is appointed by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong after consultation with the premier. Every governor is appointed for a term of four years. However, the king reserves the power to extend his term of appointment.

The governor has neither deputy nor assistant. However, in event of his inability to govern the state due to illness, absence or any other cause, the king reserves the power to appoint a person to exercise the function of the governor.

Functions, powers and privileges
Many functions and powers of the king – at the federal level – are delegated to the governor at the state level – like the other rulers of states. The governor, however, has no power and function towards the judiciary. Most of them are appointed after consultation with the premier, except in appointing the premier. The same process occurred during dismissal of an office bearer.

The Constitution also describes powers of the governor in the Council Negri. All bills must be assented by the governor in 30 days after a bill passed. The governor also has to address the Assembly annually.