Abg Jo: Taib guided me throughout political career
The late Taib has always been very generous in sharing his experience with us.
Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg
An emotional Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg yesterday described the late Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud as a teacher who had guided him throughout his political career.
In paying tribute to the former chief minister and governor, who passed away in Kuala Lumpur yesterday aged 87, Abang Johari said they had worked “shoulder to shoulder” in overcoming various challenges and stabilising local politics back in the day.
“The late Taib has always been very generous in sharing his experience with us. His Politics of Development policy was anchored on lifting the standard of living of the people, particularly the smallholders, and realising the potential of natural resources uncovered in the state.
“I managed to pay a visit to Taib yesterday (Tuesday) and for me to see his face, I was overcome by such a strong feeling,” he told a sombre press conference at the VIP terminal of Kuching International Airport.
Abang Johari said the imposing State Legislative Assembly Complex overlooking the Sarawak River symbolised Taib’s devotion to democracy.
He said Taib boasted an illustrious public service career that began in the 1960s and had served tremendously at the federal level under three prime ministers, namely Tunku Abdul Rahman, Tun Abdul Razak Hussein and Tun Hussein Onn, for the betterment of the country and the state.
“Taib is a strong believer in mutual understandings among various religious groups for the development of humanity, particularly when Sarawak enjoys a multiracial and multiethnic society,” he said, adding the former head of state was a big fan of P. Ramlee movies that highlighted the issue of inequality in a society.
On that note, Abang Johari underlined his commitment to continue the legacy of preserving racial harmony in the state.
Taib will be laid to rest at the family cemetery in Demak Jaya today.
Members of the public can pay their last respects to Taib at the State Legislative Complex today from 8am to noon.
With Abang Johari at the press conference were deputy premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah and Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian; Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah; Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Minister Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah; Sarawak Federal Secretary Datuk Ahmad Nadzri Mohd Hassan; State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohd Abu Bakar Marzuki; and Deputy State Secretary Dato Hii Chang Kee.