KUCHING, Aug 25: Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas says Sarawak is moving fast in developing the state and has no time for extreme or bigotry views.
“We would prefer to work closely with the association which can help us to further unite our people.
“We are moving in the fast lane in developing our beloved state and have no time for any racial extremism or religious bigotry,” said Uggah when addressing Sarawak Ex-Servicemen Association Dinner last night.
The Minister of Modernisation of Agriculture, Native Land and Regional Development also expressed disagreement with the remark made by the Perak businessman who suggested that Malaysian armed forces personnel be diverted to work in plantations.
Uggah said it was due to the contributions of the army personnel that had led to prevalence of peace where businessmen may thrive in their economic undertakings.
Though disagreeing with the Perak tycoon that army personnel still in service should be involved in farming activities, Uggah fervently encouraged those who had retired to be involved in modern farming.
“There are now tremendous opportunities in the (agriculture) sector with ever increasing demands.
“Countries like Singapore wants more and more of our live pigs and fruits, fish and vegetable while China want endlessly supplies of durian.
“The association could talk to farmers organisation or the Agriculture Department to find out suitable courses and programmes for its members. We are ready to work with all of you,” said Uggah.
The Perak tycoon had said that armed forces personnel were “doing nothing except eating and sleeping” when putting forward proposals to improve the civil service.
He was quoted saying that almost all Malaysian soldiers had never fired a shot except at target practice and that some of them should replace the foreign workers in oil palm plantations.
Meanwhile, Sarawak Ex-Servicemen Association president Roland Demong Radin also expressed his disappointment with the remark made by the businessman.
He said that it was due to the army personnel’s contributions and sacrifices, that the country business sector had been able to enjoy great success and prosperity.
Roland also called on members of the association and its branches to continue to look out for the some 17,800 veterans in the effort to look after their welfare.
He later presented the “Pingat Setia Sentiasa Berjuang” (PSSB) to 10 recipients. — DayakDaily
