By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, March 1: Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s recognition as the “World’s Outstanding Muslim Leader” proves that true legitimacy and respect in the Muslim world stem from leadership and vision, not extreme religious rhetoric— a lesson Peninsula leaders should heed.
Movement for Change Sarawak (MoCS) leader Francis Siah, extended his congratulations to Abang Johari, emphasising that the award was not only an honour for Sarawak’s chief executive but also a source of pride for the people of the State.
“What’s really important is this: As a whole, Muslims in this country and in Sarawak in particular are not into religious rhetoric bordering on bigotry and extremism,” he said in a statement today.
Abang Johari has been honoured with the prestigious 2024 World Outstanding Muslim Leader of the Year Award yesterday at Asean Sarawak Business and Economic Forum 2025, in recognition of his visionary leadership and commitment to sustainable development.
He stressed that the award was a clear illustration that true leadership is rooted in qualities such as honesty, sincerity, humility, and moderation—principles that align closely with Islamic teachings and have a more lasting impact.
“True leadership is about serving the people with justice and fairness, creating an inclusive society where diverse perspectives are respected while maintaining the core values of Islam,” he said.
Siah also contrasted Abang Johari’s leadership with that of a certain leader in Peninsular Malaysia, whom he claimed was trying too hard to project himself as a leader of the Muslim world, but whose approach had backfired and eroded public trust.
“I earnestly hope that our man in Putrajaya can take serious lessons from our man in Petra Jaya on how to win the support and trust of the people in a multi-racial, multi-cultural, and multi-religious nation,” he added.
Citing the words of the late Pehin Sri Adenan Satem, Sarawak’s fifth chief minister, Siah recalled the famous phrase, “Jaga Sarawak baik-baik”, which Abang Johari later echoed with “Jaga Sarawak, Pok. Sarawak First!”
“The top priority of a Malaysian leader, Muslim or otherwise, should be this: Put Malaysia first. Look after Malaysians first. Take care of our Malaysian family first. Charity must truly begin at home,” he said.
Siah concluded by stating that a great Muslim leader is one who looks after the aspirations of all citizens, regardless of race and religion, fostering national unity and progress.
“So, thank you, Premier Abang Jo, for leading the way.” — DayakDaily
