By Lian Cheng
KUCHING, Nov 24: Kapit MP Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi should be appointed as deputy prime minister, says Sarawak activist Peter John Jaban.
He believed that Nanta would be the right person as the latter’s appointment will demonstrate the multiracial nature of the new federal government under prime minister elect Dato Sri Anwar Ibrahim.
“Nanta is the right person also because he is a senior minister who has a long history of political experience under his belt.
“The fact that he is a Dayak from Sarawak, will show that the new government is serious in bringing about a government which is fair in terms of race, religion and region.
“Give Dayak a chance to hold one of the highest posts of DPM (deputy prime minister). Since the formation of Malaysia, no Sarawakian ever held such post,” Peter John told DayakDaily.
Apart from Nanta’s seniority, Peter John said the latter, as the grandson of Tun Datuk Patinggi Temenggong Jugah Barieng, the respected paramount chief of the Iban who was responsible for bringing Sarawak into the formation of Malaysia, would strengthen the relationship between Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia.
“One thing however, as an activist, I would like to express my hope to the new Prime Minister Anwar to reform Malaysia’s education by introducing English as the medium of instruction so that young Malaysians may catch up with what happens in the world.
“English is the world’s lingua franca and the language of technology and innovation. Young Malaysians should join the global mainstream trend by first mastering the language,” said Peter John. — DayakDaily
