‘Taib understood needs of churches due to his Mission school education’
The late Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud’s understanding of religious education from his Mission school days has been hailed as instrumental in his appreciation of the needs of churches in Sarawak.
Bishop of the Anglican Church in Sarawak and Brunei, Rt Rev Datuk Danald Jute lauded Taib’s deep understanding of the contributions of religious institutions, stating that it facilitated the latter’s ability to foster strong relationships with churches in the state.
“He attended a Mission school and he understood very well the contributions of churches through his education.
“Hence, he had better interactions among people from different religious and ethnic backgrounds. There is no doubt about it, and he was a good friend to the church,” he told reporters when met during the State Honours Ceremony at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Complex here yesterday.
Reflecting on Taib’s leadership, Danald expressed gratitude for the former governor and chief minister’s significant contributions to the state’s development, noting that his legacy continues under subsequent leaders like the late Tun Pehin Sri Adenan Satem and Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He emphasised the importance of recognising the distinctive nature of Taib’s leadership while appreciating the ongoing progress achieved by Sarawak.
“However, we must acknowledge that his leadership was different, so we cannot equate what happened then with the current leadership.
“We are grateful for everything he did, continued by subsequent leaders such as Tok Nan (Adenan) and the Premier, allowing us to continue to prosper,” Danald added.
He attended a Mission school and he understood very well the contributions of churches through his education.
Datuk Danald Jute