By Jaythaleela K
MIRI, June 29: Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah has cautioned Pakatan Harapan (PH) lawmakers in the state not to instigate the people and stir trouble to disunite the people.
Speaking at a Hari Raya gathering hosted by Ketua Masyarakat Melayu Miri (Makmum) here today, he said, “Know where you stand. This is Sarawak.
“In here (Sarawak), Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) is the government. You are the opposition. Bear that in mind.”
Asajaya assemblyman Abdul Karim also emphasised that it was crucial for Sarawakians to be “fearless” of PH lawmakers. He advised local community leaders to stand up against all threats posed by PH.
“They can’t do anything to you. Of course, in order to get what they want, they will resort to threats, but please do not fear them,” he highlighted.
“Do not give in to their demands and threats. You can always decline politely their requests to use facilities within your respective areas if the purpose to conduct an event or programme is to break up our unity and harmony in Sarawak.”
Abdul Karim reasoned that elected representatives from PH in Sarawak should serve Sarawakians whole-heartedly.
“When the rakyat entrust you with the power (as YBs), you should exercise it to benefit the rakyat and not going around instigating people,” he said.
He also reminded the people to remain united to avoid possible splits caused by local-based political parties.
“We must secure Sarawak in the next state election. Thus, stand united we must, avoid split in the parties or communities. A split among us brings us no good,” he stressed.
He cited the creation of splinter parties over the decades in the state. Such a scenario should be avoided, he said.
“That is why we must stand united. This also applies to associations formed by various ethnic groups here,” he highlighted.
Also present were Assistant Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Datuk Lee Kim Shin, Piasau assemblyman Datuk Sebastian Ting, Lambir assemblyman Ripin Lamat and Miri Resident Julaihi Mastapha. — DayakDaily
