By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Nov 1: The Sultan of Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah has proposed that the private sector explore the possibility of reviving the Malaysia ferry service, which operated in the 1980s, as a symbolic initiative to strengthen connectivity between Borneo and the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia.
His Majesty said such an initiative would serve as a meaningful effort to further enhance ties between regions across the nation.
“Let us make an effort in the near future for the private sector to explore the possibility of reviving the Malaysia ferry service that once operated in the 1980s.
“In one way or another, this initiative will serve as a symbol of our efforts to bring the regions of our country closer together,” he said during the Malam Mesra Sarawak–Pahang held at the Banquet Hall of the Sarawak Legislative Assembly Complex on Friday night (Oct 31) which was broadcast live through Ukas Channel.
His Majesty also noted that Sarawak’s upcoming airline, AirBorneo, will soon take to the skies, expressing hope that it will include a direct route to Kuantan.
“We will promote the beauty of both Sarawak and Pahang and, in doing so, further strengthen our ties. In fact, we are not far apart, my flight took only about an hour, covering roughly 1,100 kilometres. If not through AirBorneo, perhaps through ‘Sea Borneo’. And if possible, a tunnel would be even better,” he quipped.
The Sultan also expressed deep appreciation and heartfelt affection for the people of Sarawak, who, despite being far away, have always remained close to his heart.
“The people of Sarawak are always in my heart. This is not something I say lightly, but I often ‘flashback’ to watch videos from the Borneo Tour two years ago.
“Though far from sight, the people of Sarawak, including Sabah are always close to my heart,” he said, recalling fond memories from the royal tour that left a lasting impression on him and his family.
His Majesty further expressed his hope that the bonds of friendship and kinship between the people of Pahang and Sarawak will continue to grow stronger, emphasising the importance of continuous efforts to deepen cooperation between the two states.
The gracious and cordial ceremony was also graced by the presence of the Tengku Ampuan of Pahang, Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah.
Also in attendance were the Sarawak Governor Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, as well as Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. — DayakDaily
