By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Oct 18: Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has reminded leaders to rely on accurate facts when addressing problems, using the local expression “embat-embat butak” to drive home his message.
Speaking at the launch of the “Satu Pemimpin, Satu Kampung” programme in Gedong today, he stressed the importance of having the right information when dealing with issues.
“We must have the correct facts when dealing with problems. We must not ‘embat-embat butak’,” he said. The event was livestreamed on the Sarawak Public Communication Unit’s (UKAS) Facebook page.
The expression “embat-embat butak”, which means doing something blindly or without careful thought, was used to stress the importance of having the right facts rather than acting recklessly or making decisions without proper consideration.
Earlier, Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) director-general Datuk Dr Hazami Jahari said the “Satu Pemimpin, Satu Kampung” programme was a government initiative to strengthen village potential and community capacity through direct engagement between leaders and residents.
The programme focused on identifying local socioeconomic and development issues and coordinating solutions through joint efforts involving ministries, departments, agencies and other stakeholders.
Abang Johari thanked DBP for bringing the programme to Gedong and congratulated Hazami, who hails from the area, for his role in safeguarding the Malay language, particularly its grammar.
Recalling their past, Abang Johari said he first met Hazami at school in 1985, when he was Assistant Minister of Regional Development and Community Development and Hazami received an award.
He joked about how their careers had progressed since then, with Hazami now serving as DBP director-general and himself becoming Premier.
The programme brought together community leaders and participants from Gedong and other areas, including Peninsular Malaysia. — DayakDaily
