DUN Speaker Mohamad Asfia sworn-in as acting Head of State until Sept 17

Mohamad Asfia (standing) taking his oath before Abang Johari (seated left) and Alwi at Astana Negeri Sarawak on Aug 17, 2023.

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By Karen Bong

KUCHING, Aug 17: Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar has been proclaimed the acting Head of State today and will exercise the functions of Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud effective from Aug 16 to Sept 17.

The 75-year-old Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) Speaker has been officially sworn-in, signing the proclamation at a ceremony at Astana Negeri Sarawak.

This significant event was witnessed by Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and Sarawak High Court Judge Dr Alwi Abd Wahab.

Mohamad Asfia (left) and wife Fatimah during the swearing-in ceremony as acting Head of State at Astana Negeri Sarawak on Aug 17.

Under Article 1 (3) of the Sarawak Constitution, the acting Head of State will carry out the functions and responsibilities of the Head of State, when the latter is unable to perform duties due to incapacitation, illness or being outside of the country.

This provision has been invoked as Taib has extended his stay overseas as he is in the process of recuperation following a surgical procedure.

Mohamad Asfia had previously been appointed as the acting Head of State from Dec 1, 2019 to Jan 11, 2020.

Mohamad Asfia’s wife Puan Sri Dato Fatimah Mohd Iskandar, Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian were among those present at the ceremony. — DayakDaily

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