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By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Aug 31: Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has expressed his disappointment regarding the use of divisive racial and religious issues by desperate leaders for political gain.
Conveying his sadness over the current lack of focus on the nation’s overall progress, Abang Johari emphasised that this unhealthy trend must change for the betterment of Malaysia.
“The world is struggling with various problems, including the Covid-19 pandemic, global conflicts and climate change. As a country, we should be united to face all these problems,” he said when addressing the Sarawak-Level National Day celebration 2023 at the Mukah Politeknik multipurpose hall in Mukah which was broadcast live by Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas) on social media today.
With that, Abang Johari advised Sarawakians against “clawing” at one another, as it only serves to exacerbate divisions based on religion, race, descent, or in terms of region.
“If we are suspicious of each other and keep “berbentes” (fighting), then our energy and thoughts are only focused on unnecessary provoking and defeating the opponents.
“We (Sarawakians) should not be complacent,” he emphasised.
In conjunction with this year’s National Day celebration, Abang Johari called on all Sarawakians and Malaysians to understand that the interests of the nation must always take precedence over other matters.
The country, he emphasised, needs a strong government to shoulder the responsibility of setting clear economic direction towards making Malaysia a high-income country so that the independence enjoyed today gives its citizens true purpose.
“Appreciation of the struggles of the past leaders is not just chanting the slogan ‘Merdeka, Merdeka, Merdeka’ but a reminder to us all of the efforts in overcoming obstacles we faced in order to achieve racial unity.
“The spirit of unity and mutual respect between races should continue to be strengthened so that this country continues to step confidently and boldly towards becoming a country that is respected and admired in the region and around the world,” he stressed.
The celebration was graced by the presence of acting Head of State Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar and his wife Puan Sri Dato Fatimah Mohd Iskandar.
The event also featured the raising of Jalur Gemilang by the Royal Malaysian Navy accompanied by a rendition of Negaraku by the police band.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Minister of Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah and Sarawak State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki were among the dignitaries present. — DayakDaily
