‘Stability foundation for state’s progress’

Premier: ‘Politics of unity’ must be prioritised as Sarawak forges ahead in establishing new economy

We must have politics of unity. The leaders must work together. There must be no personal agenda. Our agenda is the Sarawak agenda… Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg

There is no room for divisive politics in Sarawak in the pursuit of becoming a developed state, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

According to him, stability remains the core foundation for the state as it embarks on strengthening the base for new economy.

“We must have politics of unity. The leaders must work together. There must be no personal agenda.

“Our agenda is the Sarawak agenda, and the GPS (Gabungan Parti Sarawak) will stick to this Sarawak agenda,” he said in his speech at the Sarawak United People’s Party’s (SUPP) Chinese New Year celebration cum the party’s 65th anniversary dinner, here on Saturday.

The event was jointly hosted by the five SUPP branches in Sibu: Dudong, Pelawan, Nangka, Bukit Assek and Bawang Assan.

Adding on, Abang Johari said he had asked Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn and his deputy Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee to look a er ma ers of education in the state and come out with practical policies on education.

“We say Sarawakian children must at least be conversant in two languages – Bahasa Malaysia (which is) mandatory, and also English.

“Now, because many children study in Chinese independent schools, they can also speak and understand Mandarin – meaning, we have three languages. That is the future of Sarawakians.”

The Premier also touched on the state’s free tertiary education initiative for Sarawakian children which is slated to begin in 2026, saying the government has the funds to implement this.

“With 5,000 students entering Sarawak-owned universities, we have calculated, and I know we have the money to provide free education to Sarawakian students.

“This will go a long way towards benefi ing our students, especially those from poor households who are unable to go to university,” he said, adding that this was not an election promise.

“We, leaders of GPS, have calculated – this is our income, and we must give back to the people, especially the poor students who are unable to go to university.

“Irrespective of racial background, the children must be given the opportunity to study at university level,” said Abang Johari.

Deputy Premier and SUPP president Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian was among the dignitaries present at the event.