By Nancy Nais
SIBU, June 13: Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg want Sarawak to maintain the strong unity which it has been doing so for years.
Although slower in development compared to other states and despite differences in race and religion amongst its people, Sarawak was able to move forward because of unity.
Speaking at the Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) Ramah Mesra Gawai Raya celebration in Sibu last night, Abang Johari said Sarawak has a very special and unique culture where all the races and religions can sit well and celebrate so many festivals together.
“If we can continue the peace and stability and strengthen it more, the state will develop better in the hands of local Sarawakians,” he told the crowd of about 7,000 people at Taman Harmony.
Pointing at the change of landscape especially in Sibu, Abang Johari said the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS)-led state government will continue to work hard to develop Sibu better.
“There is no point to be divided as it will not strengthen and develop Sarawak. We are not the type that quarrels like those from the other side (West Malaysia states). Instead, we focus our politics on development,” he said, adding that GPS is determined to pursue the direction to build Sarawak as the best state in Malaysia by 2030.
Sarawak belongs to Sarawakians and therefore it has to be administered and developed, including basic amenities such as affordable housing, roads, clean water and electricity, involving the participation of all races.
The Chief Minister said since Sarawak is very rich with natural resources, therefore Sarawakians must have the determination and collective responsibility to handle their own state resources, rather than allowing outsiders to do so.
“The GPS team (Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu, Sarawak United Peoples’ Party, Parti Rakyat Sarawak and Progressive Democratic Party) have pledged to protect Sarawak. With good planning, we can continue to build Sarawak.”
Echoing Abang Johari, Nangka assemblyman Dr Annuar Rapaee added that the overwhelming crowd comprising all races and religions who attended the event shows that Sibu folks are united under the leadership of the chief minister.
“We must make sure we maintain it that way. I urge Sibu folks to keep the harmonious momentum and I am confident Sarawakians will continue giving their support to GPS.” — DayakDaily
