
By Karen Bong
MARUDI, Jan 17: Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg emphasised that the recognition by the World Bank of Sarawak as a high-income region reflects the collective progress of the State, underscoring the importance of unity over individual ministerial ratings.
He pointed out that governance within the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government is a collective responsibility and that grading the performance of selected ministers is irrelevant.
“There are no 40 per cent or 20 per cent. Whether Malays, Melanaus, Ibans, and Bidayuhs, we work hard together in unity. The Cabinet system is a collective responsibility
“You cannot judge it that way, you must assess the performance of everybody,” he said when addressing the inauguration ceremony for Marudi Bridge, which was streamed live via Ukas Channel, today.
Abang Johari stressed that the true measure of success should be Sarawak’s economic progress, which has been validated by the World Bank’s recognition of Sarawak as a high-income region.
“This is the outcome of our collective efforts,” he added.
He also acknowledged the tireless work of his ministers: “Douglas is nearly bald from constantly thinking of ways to improve infrastructure, Dr Rundi goes down to paddy fields, Dr Penguang is always at my door seeking approval for projects, Anyi consistently requests and pursues projects in Parliament, and Lee Kim Shin is focused on securing aviation services.”
This followed a recent survey conducted by Professor Dr Jayum Jawan, a Fellow of the Academy of Sciences Malaysia (ASM) and a member of the National Unity Advisory Council (NUAC). The survey found that only three out of 18 Sarawak Dayak ministers and deputy ministers at both the federal and state levels, evaluated by Dayak netizens, received approval ratings of 50 percent or higher, with the rest faring poorly.
The Premier emphasised that the Cabinet, chosen by the people, works diligently regardless of racial background.
“We cannot be divided; our unity must remain strong and firm. When united, we can work together to secure the resources we need. If we argue and fight, how can we expect to find the funding? Without money, we cannot thrive,” he said.
Abang Johari reiterated the importance of safeguarding Sarawak’s unity and pledged to continue working hard, implementing new policies to foster the region’s economic growth and ensure shared prosperity.
“We leave our path to God, but we will continue working hard. With the right infrastructure in place, as the saying goes, ‘the boat has been moved into the water, now go on and paddle forward with the vessel named Bumi Kenyalang,” he called on. — DayakDaily