By Amanda L
KUCHING, Jan 14: The question of who will succeed the Premier of Sarawak should ultimately be decided by the people, with leadership anchored in integrity, strong values, and a deep sense of responsibility, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Speaking at the ‘Townhall 9 Tahun Bersama YAB Premier Sarawak’ held at the Hikmah Exchange Event Centre (HEEC) in Kuching last night (Jan 13), Abang Johari stressed that the position of Premier is not about personal ambition but a heavy trust bestowed by the people.
He noted that leadership is shaped by public choice, recalling that he assumed the role following the passing of the late Pehin Sri Adenan Satem after being entrusted by party colleagues and receiving the mandate of the people.
“The position of Premier is a heavy trust. Every word and every decision carries responsibility, not only in this world but also in the hereafter,” he said.
Touching on the values required of future leaders, Abang Johari stressed that sincerity in serving the people and adherence to moral and religious principles must guide decision making, regardless of background.
As an example, he pointed to Sarawak’s free education policy, which he said reflects governance driven by long term responsibility rather than short term political considerations. He explained that the initiative was founded on the belief that knowledge passed on to future generations is a lasting contribution, adding that such efforts benefit not only the recipients but also those who supported the leadership that enabled the policy.
On leadership qualities, he said potential successors must demonstrate strong character, integrity, and the ability to carry out responsibilities faithfully, warning that any deviation from these principles could have serious consequences.
Leadership, he added, is not confined to one individual but applies to all entrusted with responsibility. In this regard, he cited Sarawak leaders serving at the national level as examples of this trust being upheld.
Abang Johari also highlighted the importance of carefully managing Sarawak’s multiracial and multi religious society to preserve harmony and stability, describing peace as the foundation for sustainable development.
Reflecting on his own journey, he said leaders are shaped over time through experience and guidance, noting that he benefitted from years of mentorship under past Sarawak leaders, including the late Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud and the late Pehin Sri Adenan Satem.
With more than four decades in politics, he acknowledged that a leadership transition would eventually take place, but stressed that Sarawak’s progress must continue under a new generation with fresh approaches.
“The future leadership of Sarawak is in the hands of the people and the younger generation.
“What matters is that Sarawak continues to develop in a new and better way,” he said. — DayakDaily
