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By Ashley Sim and Karen Bong
KUCHING, June 8: Putrajaya is falling behind in several fields such as green technology and hydrogen compared to the progress being worked on and implemented by the Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg who has guided Sarawak to new heights.
Prime Minister Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim said he had raised this point during high-level meetings with multiple departments in Putrajaya recently.
“I am not saying this out of envy. But this is the reality of Sarawak today.
“With the dedication and commitment of leadership, he (Abang Johari) has taken Sarawak to a higher level compared to any other State in Malaysia,” Anwar said, commending the Premier when speaking at the Gawai Dayak 2023 celebration dinner hosted by the Sarawak government at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) last night.
The celebration was honoured with the presence of Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud and his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Raghad Kurdi Taib, as well as Abang Johari and Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
Anwar further highlighted Sarawak’s transformation, stating that the region was one of the poorest with inadequate infrastructure in its early years after joining Malaysia in 1963.
However, with the leadership of figures like Taib and the late Pehin Sri Adenan Satem, Anwar said Sarawak has managed to build its strengths, leading to the evident progress seen today.
With that, he reiterated the importance of unity in order to propel the country toward a better future.
Commending Sarawak’s leadership for its demonstrated tenacity of purpose, commitment, foresight, and vision, Anwar stated his intention to work closely with Abang Johari to elevate not only Sarawak but also Malaysia to greater heights in the very near future.
“We deserve better because we have the potential and resources. It is contingent upon our commitment to undertake the changes and reform, to ensure good governance, to avoid leakages, to avoid tendency to exploit resources not for the State but the benefit of leaders.
“This is seen in the commitment of the Premier. I am very optimistic and in fact very encouraged. I don’t mince words even though sometimes I’m a bit blunt with criticisms and controversial (points). But I have to acknowledge that in Sarawak, you have shown your capacity to perform well,” he added.
Deputy Prime Minister Dato Sri Fadillah Yusof, Sarawak Legislative Assembly Speaker Datuk Amar Mohd Asfia Awang Nasar as well as Sarawak and federal dignitaries were among those present. — DayakDaily
