Why is Sarawak still poor, Pewakub chairperson asks
SIBU: Sibu Kenyah Uma Baha Women Association (Pewakub) chairperson Umie Liau wonders why Sarawak is still poor despite achieving independence 58 years ago.
In a statement yesterday, she said Sarawak is rich in natural resources, yet still much behind in terms of physical development than other states in Malysia.
“Look at the aspect of education, healthcare, economy, job opportunities and so forth.
“Look at Sarawak’s road system, transportation system, treated water and electricity supplies, internet connection, dilapidated schools and clinics, and many more, especially in the remote areas of Sarawak. Why? You and I know Sarawak is rich.
Yet, Sarawak is poor,” she said.
She asked where the wealth and profits of all the natural resources have gone to for almost 60 years.
She urged the new generation to seriously ponder upon these issues and to think on the positive change that they can bring for Sarawak.
She also wanted the younger generation to ponder whether Sarawak has truly gained independence since achieving self-governance on July 22, 1963 and when it became part of the Federation of Malaysia three months later.
“Is Sarawak still being ‘colonised’ subtly by some power until today?” she asked.
She also said that July 22 should be marked as ‘Sarawak Independence Day’ instead of ‘Sarawak Day’.
She said she regre ed that some of Sarawak’s political leaders did not put the word ‘Independence’ in their message whereas it has been gaze ed in 2016 that July 22 is Sarawak Independence Day, and not ‘Sarawak Day’.