The police chief's warning failed to deter thousands of people from marching on the streets of Kuching today to mark the 52nd anniversary of Sarawak's independence.

This is was the biggest turnout since the practice began in 2013.

The group gathered at the Jubilee recreational ground before marching towards the Song Kheng Hai rugby field. They dispersed about 11am .

Some of those present told Malaysiakini that most participants carried the current state flag or the flag that was used from 1963 until 1973.

Among others, the crowd chanted slogans demanding for a "referendum", higher oil royalty payment and greater autonomy in terms of taxation, policing, healthcare and education.

A number of participants were spotted wearing black T-shirts with the coat of arms used by the White Rajah.

"It exceeded my expectations, I feel so excited. The police are around to control traffic. People are enjoying the walk," participant Leonard Siaw told Malaysiakini .

Remembering history

The event, dubbed the "722 Sarawak Freedom and Independence Day Walk", was organised by the Sarawak Dayak Iban Association (Sadia) dan Sarawak for Sarawak (S4S).

Organiser Peter John Jaban said the event was, among others , meant to pressure the authorities into recognising July 22 as a public holiday and remind Sarawakians of their history.

Yesterday, inspector-general of police Khalid Abu Bakar told reporters the event had secessionist overtones and should be cancelled.

However, organisers for the walk had obtained permission from the police in advance.

In addressing the crowd this morning, Peter John stressed that the march had nothing to do with secessionist movements.

Meanwhile, across town, the state government's official function to mark the event was held at the state legislative assembly building.

It was attended by Governor Abdul Taib Mahmud and Chief Minister Adenan Satem.

Adenan in his speech said the state government would not entertain calls for secession.

"The state government has not and will not agree to Sarawak exiting the Federation of Malaysia. Any referendum on secession will not be approved," he was quoted as saying by Berita Harian .

However he sympathised and understood Sarawakians, who want more autonomy for the state.

The state opposition parties were not invited to attend the official function.

Sarawak DAP and PKR leaders including Chong Chien Jen and See Chee How ( photo ) attended the march instead.

Some Sarawakians, unhappy being neglected by the federal government and for not following the 18-point agreement, are even promoting secession.

Government had amended the Sedition Act in April this year in order to tackle secessionist movements.