KUCHING, May 9: Bandar Kuching MP Dr Kelvin Yii opined that Pakatan Harapan (PH)’s performance should not be judged solely by its allocation to Sarawak, as it might lead to irresponsible spending.
“Some quarters’ attempts to judge PH performance, especially in Sarawak, solely by allocation amount to the state is not only superficial but could perpetuate the habit of irresponsible spending, risking wastage and corruption that was rampant during the time of BN, which will rack in more debts to the country that has to be paid by our children’s children.
“What is even more important is to set stronger economic fundamentals and good government measures that will take time for its fruits and result to be seen but yet secure a better sustainable future and foundation for more equitable wealth sharing and development even in Sabah and Sarawak.
“But I am confident that with a cleaner and transparent government, the people, including the people of Sarawak, will benefit as more money that is saved through anti-corruption measures and wastage can be pumped back to the people, especially in the long term,” said Dr Yii in a statement yesterday.
He admitted that amid successes, there were mistakes, miscommunications and setbacks in PH’s first year in office
“We need to improve on the communication of our policies to remove any confusion, especially those that really benefit the people. On top of that, proper communication by our leaders is also important to remove any conflicting messaging.
“On top of that, it is important that we stay the course of reforms and trying our best to fulfil the promises that we made to the people. While many could not yet be carried out due to financial restraints, yet we must continue to show sincerity and to try our best to fulfil what was promised to the people.
“It is also important to make sure that we keep striving to restore the rights of Sarawak that was lost and see Sarawak get more equitable development,” he said.
On his part, he said he would do his best to serve the people and be accountable to the resources that have been allocated to him.
“While there are things that are out of my hands, I will continue to use my role as a backbencher to voice out within the government on specific things that need to be reformed and even give constructive feedback to what I feel as weaknesses that we need to address.
“In all the good and strives forward that we have made, it is also important that we do not lose sight of the more that has to be done. We should not be arrogant but always listen to the voices of the people because the one that won on May 9 was not mere political parties, but actually the people.
“A journey of a thousand miles starts with the first step. We may have made that first step and the journey ahead may be challenging, but we will need to keep on listening and learning as we chart future steps,” said Dr Yii. — DayakDaily
