By Marlynda Meraw
KUCHING, Dec 5: Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg is celebrated as both a “reformist” and an “icon of unity” by the State’s top leadership at the launch of his biography, ‘Abang Johari: Sarawak’s First Premier.’
The Yang di-Pertua Negeri (TYT), Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, and Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas led the event today at the Dayak Cultural Foundation (DCF), which commissioned the authoritative account of Abang Johari’s life.
Officiating the event, Wan Junaidi highlighted the importance of the biography, stating that such works offer lasting lessons on leadership, resilience, and public service.
In his speech, he reflected on his long relationship with the Premier, emphasising his steady hand in steering State affairs.
“Long before he assumed the office of Premier, I had observed his calm, deliberate approach to decision-making and his consistent sense of duty to the people,” said Wan Junaidi.
“These qualities continue to define his leadership today.”
Wan Junaidi commended Abang Johari for spearheading Sarawak’s transformation through clear vision and courageous decisions, noting that his contributions go beyond domestic recognition.
“Abang Johari is a reformist,” he asserted, citing the recent Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star, conferred upon the Premier by the Government of Japan as a reflection of international appreciation for his role in building meaningful partnerships and advancing Sarawak’s global profile.
Meanwhile, Uggah, who is also the Chairman of the DCF, affirmed the Foundation’s decision to commission the book as a gesture of appreciation from the Dayak community to Abang Johari.
Uggah, who has served alongside Abang Johari since 1978 and regards him as a mentor, stressed that the Premier’s story is fundamentally linked to the State’s modern journey.
“He firmly believes that Sarawak is a region in its own right. It was this conviction that inspired his bold and decisive move to transition the title of Chief Minister to Premier, making him the first Premier of Sarawak,” said Uggah in his speech today.
He lauded Abang Johari for charting a bold new economic direction, transforming Sarawak into a high-income region recognised as the “Battery of ASEAN”, thanks to his leadership in green hydrogen and renewable energy.
Both leaders praised the choice of author, Professor Michael B. Leigh, a distinguished scholar whose engagement with Sarawak dates back to the 1960s.
Wan Junaidi noted that Professor Leigh’s dedication and meticulous research ensured the biography will serve as a lasting reference, while Uggah emphasised the need to chronicle the Premier’s experiences with accuracy, depth, and critical insight.
The DCF provided necessary context regarding the independent nature of the biography written by Professor Leigh, whose earlier works included ‘The Rising Moon: Political Change in Sarawak.’
Uggah said that the book reflects Professor Leigh’s scholarly interpretations of events and the conclusions he has drawn, and formally stated that the political analyses and views expressed are solely those of the author, and do not represent the positions or opinions of the Foundation.
“May this work inspire future generations to lead with integrity, wisdom, and an unwavering commitment to the continued progress of our beloved motherland,” he said.
He acknowledged that the project reached fruition due to the conviction and steadfast support of Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Leonard Linggi, the Managing Trustee of DCF.
“Sir (Abang Johari), we hope you will continue to lead Sarawak for many more years and to the greatest of heights with the spirit of ‘Agi Idup Agi Ngelaban’ (as long as you live, you fight) in your heart,” Uggah concluded. — DayakDaily
