By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Feb 13: Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian has called on Sarawakians to seriously reconsider the loyalty of certain individuals who claim to be Anak Sarawak but consistently undermine Sarawak’s interests.
He lamented that some Sarawakians, upon becoming lawmakers, align themselves with Peninsular Malaysia, choosing to fight against Sarawak instead of defending its rights, particularly in the Sarawak’s oil and gas rights involving Petroliam Nasional Berhad (PETRONAS) and Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (Petros).
“‘Kawan KL, lawan Sarawak’ (Friends with KL, fight Sarawak)—but Anak Sarawak? We must think seriously about what kind of Anak Sarawak these people are. We do not need these kinds of people as Anak Sarawak,” he asserted when officiating the Love Blooms event in conjunction with the Chap Goh Mei celebration, organised by Kuching South City Council (MBKS) at Malaysia-China Friendship Park last night (Feb 12).
He welcomed federal Transport Minister Anthony Loke’s assurance that discussions between the federal and Sarawak governments on the oil and gas matters would lead to a mutually beneficial outcome, with both parties retaining their respective rights.
This follows Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s remarks that the issue was “clear water” and has finality, with only minor misunderstandings stemming from misinformation.
Yesterday, Loke, who is also the Democratic Action Party (DAP) secretary-general, stated that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had extensively briefed the Cabinet on the matter, leading to a consensus in the Cabinet on a resolution that safeguards both parties’ interests. The goal remains a win-win outcome, which he described as the foundation of the relationship between Putrajaya and Sarawak.
Dr Sim expressed hope for a swift resolution so Sarawak could fully reclaim ownership of its oil and gas resources, emphasising the sector’s critical role in generating billions of ringgit in revenue.
This financial strength, he noted, has allowed Sarawak to accelerate its development and future ambitions.
“This is about the ownership of Sarawak’s gas for the next 100 years. But unlike true Anak Sarawak, some behave more like West Malaysians—running Sarawak down, don’t dare to fight Peninsula Malaysia. We will fight all the way. Yet, some of our own elected representatives choose only to fight Sarawak, not KL,” he remarked.
He stressed that as Sarawak progresses, it is crucial to remain steadfast in its vision.
“A decade ago, people laughed at Sarawak’s ambitions—whether it was owning an airline, buying a bank, or taking charge of our own future. But today, Malaysia looks up to Sarawak. They see our leadership and the path we are forging,” he stressed.
Dr Sim underscored that Sarawak’s strength lies in its unity, pointing to the diverse crowd at the Chap Goh Mei celebration as a testament to the region’s harmonious multiracial and multireligious society.
“We must safeguard and strengthen our unity. Sarawak is doing very well, but for this to continue, we need political stability and strong leadership,” he said. — DayakDaily
