By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, June 23: Wisma SABATI (Association of Wives of Ministers and Deputy Ministers of Sarawak) stands as a lasting legacy of the late Puan Sri Datuk Amar Juma’ani Tun Tuanku Bujang, whose contributions extended far beyond her role as the Premier’s wife, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
Uggah said the iconic building was one of the major achievements during her eight-year tenure as President of SABATI, where she spearheaded numerous programmes aimed at uplifting communities in the social, religious, and economic spheres.
“One of her major achievements was the successful establishment of Wisma SABATI, which we see standing proudly today,” he told reporters when met at Masjid Jamek Negeri Sarawak in Petra Jaya here this morning after paying his last respects to the late wife of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Uggah, who is also State Minister for Infrastructure and Port Development, said the late Juma’ani played a significant role in supporting the Premier and was always by his side from the very beginning of his political career.
“I entered politics with the Premier in 1978, and I witnessed her as a strong and constant figure behind him.
“I would describe her as the backbone who helped the Premier in developing Sarawak.
“Her passing is a great loss not only to the Premier and his family but to the entire State,” he added.
Uggah also noted that the late Juma’ani was a deeply compassionate person whose efforts touched many lives.
“She was very concerned about the wellbeing of the people. Through various religious, community, and social activities, many were moved by her kindness and love,” he said.
Meanwhile, Uggah’s wife and SABATI deputy president, Datuk Doreen Mayang, said the passing of the Premier’s wife is a tremendous loss to the association and to all who had served with her.
“This is a very sorrowful day for us. SABATI has lost a beloved president,” she said.
Doreen, who worked closely with the late Juma’ani throughout her service, described her as a caring, dedicated leader who was deeply committed to charity work and the welfare of the people.
“She ensured aid was delivered throughout Sarawak. She was always the one who instructed us to visit hospitals, welfare homes, and the Salvation Army to distribute contribution bags during festive seasons like Chinese New Year, Hari Raya, and Christmas,” she added.
“She was not only our leader but our mentor and advisor, always by our side, guiding us on what SABATI should do.” — DayakDaily
