By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Sept 19: Passion for work is important to contribute full potential and commitment to continually achieve high level performances.
Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah gave this piece of advice before witnessing the handing over of duties from outgoing assistant tourism minister Datuk Lee Kim Shin to Datuk Sebastian Ting, who assumed the responsibilities today.
Lee, who has served as an assistant minister for the past 15 years handling different ministerial portfolios, has taken charge of the new Transport Ministry in the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) state government.
Abdul Karim expressed confidence in Ting for his new role and that together, they will steer the ministry to greater heights and achievements.
“I believe we can work together very well because we have known each other for a long time,” he told a press conference.
“He (Ting) has a deep passion for tourism, arts and culture and that is very important because being passionate about our work allows us to carry out our duty and responsibility without feeling burdened,” he said.
In congratulating Lee for his new role, Abdul Karim added: “I am happy for him as he is the most qualified member of the Cabinet as he has vast experience having served as assistant minister for 15 years in various portfolios. I wish him all the best.”
Lee said that he had truly enjoyed working in the tourism ministry and believed that the ministry will continue to see good progress under the leadership of Karim and Ting.
“We have established a good foundation to move further forward. I wish him (Ting) all the best and I am ready to share and give advice when needed,” he added.
Meanwhile, Ting pledged to give the best of his abilities to serve the Ministry especially in tourism area which he was passionate about.
“I am honoured and privileged (to take the responsibilities) and this is a new learning curve for me. Let’s work together for Sarawak, which must come first,” he said.
The ceremony also witnessed the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Hii Chang Kee, handing over the Youth and Sports duties to acting permanent secretary Nancy Jolhi.
Hii will assume the duties for Tourism, Arts and Culture. — DayakDaily
