By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Feb 2: Sarawak Governor (TYT) Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar played a key role in uniting Sarawak’s political landscape during a challenging period in the late 1980s, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg revealed in a speech.
Recalling the political turbulence of 1987, Abang Johari said that both Sarawak’s ruling party, Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), and the local community faced significant divisions.
At the time, Wan Junaidi, who had deep roots in Kampung No 4 in Satok, stepped forward to help bridge these divides.
“During that time of uncertainty, Tun believed that Sarawak, as a developing State, could not afford to be divided.
“Thus, he took it upon himself to assist in uniting our community, as there were some ripples of unease in our hearts,” he said during the launch of Pejuang Sejati: Dari Rimba ke Astana and 365 Days books at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly Complex earlier tonight.
Recognising Wan Junaidi’s leadership and dedication, Abang Johari further revealed that the late Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud, then Sarawak Chief Minister and PBB president, nominated him as a candidate in the 1990 parliamentary elections.
Contesting in the newly formed Batang Lupar constituency, Wan Junaidi secured a decisive victory, marking the beginning of his long and impactful parliamentary career.
Abang Johari’s remarks underscored Wan Junaidi’s significant contributions to Sarawak’s political stability and his steadfast commitment to unity.
Wan Junaidi and his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, were present at the book launch ceremony. — DayakDaily
