SARIKEI, Feb 9: The state government policy is a “Sarawak first” policy that prioritised the state and its people.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg said it is important for the state to look after the welfare and interest of Sarawakians before talking about other matters.
“The policy of the state government is Sarawak first, we want to give priority to Sarawak’s interest before others. We look after our interest,” he said at the state-level Chinese New Year (CNY) Open House celebration here today.
At the same time, Abang Johari called on the Chinese community to be united and supportive of the state government’s efforts in developing Sarawak.
He said the state, under his leadership, has outlined various initiatives to develop Sarawak.
“The state government will champion the immigration autonomy as one of the rights in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) to prevent bigots and extremist from Peninsular Malaysia to enter Sarawak.
“During my discussion with the MA63 committee chaired by the prime minister, I say immigration is an item that it non-negotiable. It is our rights,” he continued.
Abang Johari cited the Sarawak Land Code and continental shelf as among the rights that the state will protect.
On another note, the chief minister said it will consider the request of Federation of Chinese Associations of Kuching, Samarahan, and Serian Divisions president, Datuk Richard Wee, to build a permanent building for the association.
In his speech earlier, Wee suggested the state government to identify a proper channel to conduct briefings and updates on the progress of the negotiation of the MA63 to the public on a regular basis.
He believed the approach would enable the public to be kept informed, as well as to understand the challenges faced by the state government in its efforts to reclaim eroded rights. — DayakDaily
