By Lian Cheng
KUCHING, Feb 11: Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) vice-presidential candidate Datuk Len Talif may not promise the moon and the stars, but he vows to give his best if elected.
Facing off against defending candidates, including two full ministers—Tourism, Performing Arts and Creative Industry Minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Utilities and Telecommunication Minister Dato Sri Julaihi Narawai, his deputy Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, and Education and Innovation Deputy Minister Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee—Len acknowledges that the contest features candidates with their own strengths and weaknesses.
Len who is Candidate Number 1 in PBB vice-presidential contest believes his strengths lie in his ongoing role, particularly in the Central Region, and his long experience in civil service, which has given him a solid understanding of the governmental mechanisms involved in project implementation.
“I still have a role to play, possibly as vice president. If you look at the Central Region, we have long-term plans, especially in infrastructure development. As the chairman of the Rajang Delta Development Agency (RADDA), appointed by the Premier (Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg), I can use this platform to accelerate the planning and implementation of projects.
“I offer my service in that capacity. I will promote this vision, and it aligns with the sentiment of some of our representatives. I may not promise the stars, the moon, or the sky, but I will do my best,” Len added when met at the PBB headquarters during the drawing of lots for candidacy numbers in the vice-presidential race.
He emphasized that all candidates, including backbencher Datuk Ibrahim Baki, PBB’s Deputy Secretary-General and the ruling coalition Gabungan Parti Sarawak’s Treasurer-General, are highly qualified.
“Although one of them is a backbencher, all of us have our own strengths, and of course, each of us has our own weaknesses. But if you’re entering this race, you need confidence. I have confidence in my ability to win, but I also know that I have to work for it and convince the delegates that I am capable of delivering,” Len said.
Len brings 32 years of experience in government service, noting that he understands the mechanics of government processes, particularly in terms of project implementation.
“As a government servant, I know how things work. The government is the driver of development. You must understand the processes and procedures involved. In my ministry, which deals with development and land matters, it is crucial to have the necessary land. With my experience in both the ministry and civil service, I believe I can contribute significantly—not just for the region I represent but for all of Sarawak, not only for PBB but for the entire State,” said Len, who currently serves as the Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Urban Development.
He also noted that the open contest for the vice-presidential posts reflects the party’s maturity, as it provides delegates with choices and options. — DayakDaily
