KUCHING: Outgoing permanent secretary to the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts (MTCP) Datuk Hii Chang Kee yesterday conveyed his appreciation to the Sarawak government for giving him the opportunity to hold the post as the Deputy State Secretary in the state.
Hii, who hails from Sibu, said that he is honoured to be given the position and will be reporting for duty on Jan 3 next year.
“I would like to thank the state government, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, the State Secretary as well as the other ministers for their confidence in me.
“There are three deputy state secretaries, so I would report first then I will know the portfolio. I received the appointment earlier but the official portfolio will only be known on Jan 3.
“I will definitely do my best to serve the government and the people,” he told reporters after officiating at the launching of the ‘The Sarawak ArtList’ Book’ at Saradise Gallery, Jalan Song here yesterday.
When asked on him being the first Chinese to hold the position of Deputy State Secretary in the state, Hii said indeed it is a recognition from the government.
“This is definitely a recognition and I think irrespective of racial background, as state civil servant, one must serve everybody,” said Hii.
Hii, 55, served as the Sibu Municipal Council secretary for 23 years from 1992 to 2015.
He then served as the Sibu Resident for the year 2016 to 2017. Following that, he became the MTCP permanent secretary from 2018 until 2022.
