By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Sept 27: An academic has backed Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s inclusive approach to governance, while calling for the philosophy to translate into concrete action across Sarawak’s government machinery, economic opportunities, and power-sharing.
In a statement, Datuk Prof Dr Jayum Jawan, who is a Fellow of the Academy of Sciences Malaysia and at the Institution of Malay Rulers Chair at UiTM, as well as an Adjunct Professor with the Institute of Borneo Studies in Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas), said an inclusive approach was essential in a plural society such as Sarawak.
“I fully and strongly support Abang Johari’s attempt at an inclusive approach to his governance style. It is the only right method in a plural society such as Sarawak. All ethnic groups must be nurtured to develop a sense of belonging in the State.
“More importantly, opportunities must also, as the Premier argued, be felt by all,” he said, adding that the Premier reportedly said this during the Sarawakku Sayang 2026 event held in Betong recently.
Citing more of Abang Johari’s remarks at the event, he also said the Premier was reportedly concerned that race-based politics could lead to divisiveness and reduce interaction and cooperation between people of various ethnic backgrounds.
Jayum said that the government machinery, especially departments and agencies, must embrace this approach, and that managers and executives in these departments and agencies must carry out their duties to realise this vision.
He went on to say that Abang Johari gave an example of educational assistance the government provides to Sarawak students regardless of ethnic background.
“This is a good example, but equal opportunities must also be translated into other areas such as access to electricity and clean water, economic and business opportunities, and power-sharing in governance and the distribution of the spoils,” he said.
He added that these areas could be considered part of efforts further to strengthen the Premier’s vision of inclusive governance and ensure the principle is reflected consistently in government leadership and administration, not just during election season. — DayakDaily
