By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, June 28: The exemplary leadership of Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg continues to draw immense admiration from beyond the State’s borders, extending deeply into neighbouring Sabah.
Kadazandusun Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) president Datuk Ladislaus Maluda highlighted the profound impact of Abang Johari’s governance, stating that Sabahans hold the Premier’s visionary direction in high regard.
“We are here tonight to listen to the speech by the Right Honourable Premier of Sarawak, whose exemplary leadership, is greatly admired by Sabahans,” he said when speaking at the 17th Joint Gawai Kaamatan celebration gala dinner held at Unifor Complex here tonight.
The joint celebration, co-hosted by the Dayak Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) and KCCI, highlights the strengthening economic and cultural ties between the indigenous business communities of the two Bornean states.
Ladislaus noted that the spirit of collaboration has grown significantly since its modest beginnings in Kota Kinabalu back in 2007. What started primarily as a social gathering and golf transitions has matured into a sophisticated platform for economic cooperation, as demonstrated by the business forum held earlier today.
Reflecting on the future of both chambers, Ladislaus emphasised the influx of younger, tertiary-educated entrepreneurs into the business ecosystem—a trajectory he believes ensures the long-term continuity of the Bornean economic alliance.
With the theme, “Honouring Heritage, Shaping the Future,” the two-day celebration featured a series of programmes and activities, including the Cultural and Business Exhibition, Business Forum, networking sessions, business matching opportunities and cultural performances.
The gala dinner was officiated by Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Also present were the Works Minister Dato Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi; National Unity Minister Dato Sri Aaron Ago Dagang; Sarawak Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom; Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Dato Sri John Sikie Tayai; former Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Alfred Jabu Numpang; Yayasan Tun Jugah chairman Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Leonard Linggi Jugah; DCCI president Dato Allan Keripin Nangkai; and the event’s organising chairman Kilat Beriak. — DayakDaily
