KUCHING, Aug 18: The proposal to appoint Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi who is a Sarawak-born to the post of deputy prime minister is timely as it will reflect the inclusivity of the country’s governance and enable more developments to be brought to Sarawak comprehensively.
Former political secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office Lidam Assan expressed full support of the proposal to appoint Nanta, who is the Kapit member of parliament (MP), as the deputy prime minister (DPM) as suggested by many quarters, including Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) Youth information chief, Andy Lawrence.
“To understand the landscape of Sarawak and the development that can be brought into the State more comprehensively, it would be better if a Sarawakian is appointed for this position.
“With vast experience under YB Dato Sri Alexander’s belt, who has been elected as Kapit MP for six consecutive terms, I believe he is capable to carry out his duties as DPM if given the opportunity,” said Lidam in a statement today.
He pointed out that the appointment of a Sarawak-born for this post is timely, taking into account the inclusiveness of the role of all Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak MPs in the highest helm of the country’s governance.
“The election of MPs from Borneo also provides an opportunity to execute a more targeted focus on the development of Sabah and Sarawak, which will be in line with the progress and development in Peninsular Malaysia.
“With the role of DPM entrusted to Dato Sri Alexander who has extensive experience in politics and rural issues, we are confident that the cooperation between the federal and State government of Sarawak can be amplified and strengthened to usher more development in the state, especially in the rural areas,” he added.
During Nanta’s stint as the Minister of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs, Lidam stressed that the former had successfully helped Sarawak to obtain liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) Regulatory Exemption, permission for SEDC Energy Sdn Bhd to become an oil company in Sarawak and assisted in resolving petroleum sales tax issues involving Sarawak and Petroliam Nasional Berhad (Petronas).
While these achievements have been among the important milestones for Sarawak State government, Lidam hopes that more progress can be achieved in Sarawak if the post of DPM is entrusted to Nanta. — DayakDaily
