Jabu an old friend – Najib

BETONG: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak yesterday paid tribute to Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Alfred Jabu, whom he described as an old friend.

He said Barisan Nasional (BN) would miss him as Jabu would retire from politics after this state election.

Najib made the remark at the launching of the Rural Transformation Centre (RTC) at the Layar junction here.

“He (Jabu) has been very loyal to BN. His loyalty to BN is second to none and he has proven that he fought with his heart and soul for BN throughout the years,” he added.

He also commended Jabu for bringing progress to Sarawak.

Hence, he hoped that Sarawakians would remember Jabu as a politician who was dedicated to his tasks and somebody who had done so much for the state and country.

“Me and him go a long way back. I wish him all the best in his retirement and may his legacy be long lasting among Sarawakians for the many years to come,” he said.

Later, he announced that Jabu’s son Gerald Rentap will contest the Layar seat as BN candidate in the coming state election.

Thus he hoped voters in Layar who have been supporting Jabu will vote for Rentap in the election to continue his father’s good work.

“Rentap can do a magnificent work for Layar if given the chance. He is our pick for this area as we want to say thank you to his father for his contributions too,” he commented.

Meanwhile, Jabu who was present described Betong as always been a BN stronghold.

Jabu attended the event on behalf of caretaker Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem.

Jabu first won the Layar seat in 1974. He finally called it quits after serving the constituency for 43 years to make way for his son Rentap.

Also present were Rural and Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, other federal ministers, state ministers, MPs and some BN candidates for the coming state election.