KUCHING: The New Year marks an opportunity for Sarawak’s civil service to advance with greater precision, competitiveness and innovation in all aspects.
Sarawak State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki said the civil service must strengthen its capabilities and capacities to ensure more effective, efficient and innovative service delivery to the people.
He noted that 2024 had taught valuable lessons through challenges and successes, showcasing the resilience and unity of the Sarawakian community.
“This new year is a chance for us to move forward with renewed determination, competitiveness and innovation.
“Our focus must remain on enhancing the capabilities and capacities of Sarawak’s public service to deliver better services to the people,” he said in a statement.
Abu Bakar also extended his heartfelt Christmas greetings to all Christians in Sarawak, stressing the spirit of unity and mutual respect among the state’s multiracial and multireligious community.
He said that the joy of Christmas was not only celebrated by Christians but also shared by others as a mark of respect and harmony.
He further expressed his hopes for the festive season to bring joy, peace and blessings to all.
“On behalf of the Sarawak civil service, I wish all Christians in Sarawak a joyous and merry Christmas.
“This festive season symbolises unity, respect and the celebration of diverse traditions within our community.”
Looking ahead to 2025, Abu Bakar reiterated the importance of continuous progress in the civil service.
He expressed gratitude to the Sarawak government under Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg for its commitment to public welfare through the 2025 budget.
He described the budget as a testament to the government’s recognition of the contributions of civil servants in driving Sarawak’s development.
“The 2025 budget demonstrates the government’s care and appreciation for the hard work of Sarawak’s civil servants.
“The introduction of a monthly allowance alongside salary adjustments under the Public Service Remuneration System is a meaningful acknowledgment of our efforts.”
Additionally, Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and UKAS) Datuk Abdullah Saidol expressed gratitude for the peace and harmony enjoyed by Sarawakians throughout the year.
On behalf of his team at UKAS, he extended warm Christmas wishes to all Sarawakians, especially Christians, and called for continued unity and mutual respect among the state’s diverse communities.
He noted that while challenges remain for some, the spirit of cooperation and care within Sarawak has eased these burdens.
“We are so blessed and truly fortunate that our lives this year have generally been calm and smooth, without the unrest that could disrupt our society.
“Although not perfect, as some among us still face significant challenges, these struggles are alleviated by the caring and collaborative nature of Sarawakians,” he said in a statement.
Abdullah added that the unique beauty of Sarawak lies in its shared celebrations of religious and cultural festivals, reflecting its deep-rooted unity.
As such, he further urged Sarawakians to reflect on the blessings of peace and humanity within the state, especially as they witness turmoil and suffering in other parts of the world.
He stressed the importance of learning from these experiences to remain committed to preserving Sarawak’s harmony.
As the year ends, he called on everyone to be thankful for the blessings of peace and prosperity that Sarawak enjoys.
“Let us come together to appreciate the blessings of peace and the strong values of humanity we uphold in Sarawak.
“While we see sadness, chaos and hardship affecting certain communities abroad, we must take these as lessons to cherish and sustain the harmony we have here.”
