SIBU: Datuk Amar Jamilah Anu, the widow of the late fifth Sarawak Chief Minister Pehin Sri Adenan Satem, expressed satisfaction with Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s commitment to carrying on Adenan’s legacy and initiatives, as well as those of past leaders, in empowering the state and its people.
Reflecting on Adenan’s significant contributions to the state, Jamilah highlighted his unwavering fight for Sarawak’s rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 and his support for Chinese independent schools.
“Some notable efforts included the implementation of toll-free roads, including the Lanang Bridge toll, his instrumental role in the construction of the Pan Borneo Highway, and the establishment of the Unit for Other Religions (Unifor),” she stated during her visit to the Chinese Education Hall at Wisma HuaWen Du Zhong on Wednesday (Jan 17).
Temenggong Datuk Vincent Lau Lee Ming, the Chairman of the United Association of Private Chinese Secondary School Boards of Management Sibu Division, warmly welcomed her.
Jamilah emphasized that Adenan’s contributions were in the best interest of Sarawak and its people.
“He often said that when you love Sarawak wholeheartedly, you can safeguard and take good care of it. Those were his exact words before his passing seven years ago. Undoubtedly, he truly wanted the people to love their state and protect it,” she stressed.
Regarding the Chinese Education Hall, she expressed hope that other divisions in the state would follow suit in showcasing the development of Chinese independent schools.
Meanwhile, Lau paid tribute to Adenan for his enduring support for Chinese independent schools in the state, which continues to inspire the community to advance Chinese education.
“The Chinese community greatly appreciates his tremendous efforts and contributions to the development of Chinese independent schools. When he became aware of the issues faced by our Chinese independent schools, Adenan pledged his assistance. In 2014, he began providing grants to 14 Chinese independent schools in Sarawak, starting with RM3 million. For the past two years, we have received RM10 million annually,” he enthused.
Lau also expressed deep gratitude for Adenan’s unwavering stance in recognizing the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) in the state.
In 2015, Adenan announced the long-awaited decision to recognize the UEC, which allowed students with UEC qualifications to apply for jobs in the Sarawak Civil Service, among other benefits.
Chinese educationists, in particular, were overjoyed by Adenan’s move, considering it a significant milestone for Chinese education in Sarawak.
