KUCHING, Oct 6: Sarawakians have a right to know the legal and political positions of the appointment of the Governor of Sarawak, says Parti Bumi Kenyalang (PBK) president Voon Lee Shan.
Responding to criticism by Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah yesterday, Voon claimed that there was nothing sensitive or seditious to bring up this issue of public interest.
“It is a right to express opinion and I have an obligation as a politician and lawyer when asked by members of the public (including the Dayak community as well as some from Gabungan Parti Sarawak and Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu) for a few times some years ago in connection with my research on Sarawak independence,” he claimed in a statement today.
Voon felt that the people of Sarawak should be kept informed of what transpired 60 years ago until now.
He claimed that there was “a need” for the State government to prepare a succession plan in the event that the current Sarawak Governor Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud decides to retire or when his term expires.
“The position of Governor is not a family affair to be confined to a certain family or political party only. The Governor is a fatherly figure to all Sarawakians and whoever is the Governor should be respected.
“But the law does not say only Muslims should be Governor of Sarawak. Even if there is such a law, it should be amended to become inclusive.
“In any circumstances, PBK supports a Dayak to be the next Governor of Sarawak in the event Tun Taib chooses to retire or when his term expires,” he added. — DayakDaily
