By Karen Bong
SARIKEI, Aug 7: Community leaders play a crucial role in ensuring government policies are understood at the grassroots level and in guiding the people towards Sarawak’s development vision and continued unity.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said a strong understanding of government policies would strengthen ties between community leaders, the people and the administration responsible for implementing those policies.
“What I want to share is the role of our community leaders in understanding our policies and in bringing our people to understand and know what the government is doing,” he said when speaking at a dinner gathering with community leaders at Sarikei Central Hall tonight, which was broadcasted live via Ukas Channel.
According to him, mutual understanding between the government and the people is essential for maintaining peace and stability in Sarawak.
He warned that a lack of understanding could create opportunities for irresponsible parties to spread misinformation and sow division among communities.
“When there is understanding, our State remains peaceful. If there is no understanding, there may be people who stir things up. When that happens, we begin to distrust one another, and the condition of our State can be affected,” he said.
Abang Johari stressed that social harmony and political stability are closely linked to economic growth, noting that economic development would be jeopardised if divisions emerged within society.
He said Sarawak’s success in increasing its revenue from RM6 billion to RM14.2 billion was made possible by strong cooperation and understanding between the government and the people.
“I am not trying to boast about Sarawak’s achievements. I want community leaders to understand that our strength comes from the understanding that exists between the people and the government,” he said.
The Premier also urged community leaders to help explain government initiatives, particularly those involving education, digital transformation, food security and economic development.
He said community leaders serve as an important bridge between the government and the rakyat, ensuring policies are understood and effectively implemented at the grassroots level.
Abang Johari added that Sarawak’s long-term aspirations, including increasing the income of people and strengthening its position in regional and global markets, would require continued unity and support from all communities across the State.
Deputy Minister of Plantation and Commodities and Sarikei MP Dato Sri Huang Tiong Sii, Speaker of Sarawak Legislative Assembly Tan Sri Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar, Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah and community leaders were among the distinguished guests present. — DayakDaily
