KUCHING: As Sarawak charts its future, citizens express hopes for continued strong leadership under Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, the strengthening of parliamentary representation, and steadfast defense of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
A comprehensive vision of Sarawakians highlights plans to empower women leaders, prioritize heritage preservation, and ensure accountability among elected representatives.
It also highlights initiatives to enhance education, housing, employment, and social welfare.
These efforts aim to propel Sarawak into a new era of development while preserving its unique identity and addressing pressing socio-economic challenges for the benefit of all Sarawakians.
Mazlan Jobli, a businessman, said he hopes the GPS government will maintain its leadership this year, especially in retaining Premier Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg in office.
“I hope the GPS government will continue to lead Sarawak this year, especially with Premier Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg at the helm.
“His leadership has brought tremendous progress and innovation to our state, from fighting for Sarawak’s rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 to advancing economic growth and infrastructure development.
“Retaining him in office ensures the continuity of these efforts and the realization of a prosperous future for Sarawak,” he said.
He also hopes that the GPS government will firmly uphold the MA63, ensuring a brighter future for Sarawak.
“Upholding the Malaysia Agreement 1963 is crucial for ensuring Sarawak’s rights and autonomy are fully respected.
“It’s not just about fulfilling a historical promise; it’s about securing a fair share of resources and opportunities for our people.
“I believe the Premier and the GPS government have been steadfast in championing this cause, and it’s vital that this commitment continues to protect Sarawak’s interests and strengthen our place within Malaysia,” he said.
However, although Sarawak is moving forward to be an advanced region of Malaysia, Mazlan expressed hope that the GPS government will also preserve traditional villages.
“Preserving traditional villages while integrating development is a great initiative.
“Protecting these communities’ cultural heritage and identity while ensuring they benefit from modern infrastructure and economic opportunities is important.
“By balancing the old and the new, we can honor our roots while providing better living conditions and opportunities for the people in these villages,” he said.
Meanwhile, lawyer Chung Sung Siong expressed hope that the GPS government will continue to cater better and more job opportunities to Sarawak graduates.
“Providing job opportunities for Sarawak graduates is essential to keep local talent in the state and support its growth.
“Many young people struggle to find suitable jobs, leading them to look elsewhere.
“By creating tailored opportunities for STM, STPM, IPTA, and IPTS graduates, this initiative can help them build careers locally and contribute to key industries like tourism, technology, and manufacturing,” he said.
Chung also expressed that reducing airfare would be a great initiative as flights are costly, and reducing the cost of flights into Sarawak may boost tourism in Sarawak.
“Reducing airfare for Sarawak residents is a fantastic idea, especially given how costly flights can be for those traveling between Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia.
“It would ease the financial burden on families, encourage more frequent travel for work or education, and help bridge the gap between East and West Malaysia.
“This initiative could also boost local tourism by making travel within Sarawak more affordable,” he said.
Furthermore, he said in order to get better graduates from Sarawak, he hopes the Government will build more primary and secondary schools while adopting international-standard education.
“Building new schools in areas like Samarahan, Lundu, and Sematan, along with providing international-standard education, is vital for the future of Sarawakian children.
“As populations grow, expanding access to quality education will equip students with the skills needed to excel in key sectors such as heavy industries and tourism.
“These efforts will ensure that every child, regardless of location, has the opportunity to contribute to Sarawak’s development and global competitiveness,” he expressed.
Expressing a sense of girl power, Suhana Sharkawi said that GPS must actively promote more women in leadership roles at all levels.
“Promoting more women into leadership roles is essential for achieving a balanced and inclusive society.
“Women bring unique perspectives and skills that can strengthen decision-making at all levels.
“By actively empowering women, GPS can set an example of progress and equality, ensuring that leadership truly reflects the diversity and talent within Sarawak,” she said.
As a true blue resident of Kampung Santubong, she expresses her hope that the widening of roads leading to the area, driven by its rapidly growing tourism industry, will be prioritized in GPS’s development plans for the future.
This, she believed, would not only improve accessibility but also support the local economy and community.
“Widening the roads leading to Santubong is a timely initiative to support its growing tourism industry.
“Improved road infrastructure will enhance accessibility, reduce traffic congestion, and provide a safer and more convenient travel experience for visitors and locals alike.
“This development can further boost tourism and local economic growth in the area, and it would be nice to see more people patronize Santubong all year round, instead of only during peak seasons,” she said.
Suhana, who is also a history buff, said she hopes that the GPS government invests more in Sarawak’s heritage.
“Being born and bred in Santubong, which holds most of Sarawak’s historical background, I believe investing in Sarawak’s heritage is vital for preserving the state’s rich cultural identity and history.
“Efforts should go beyond arts and performances to include all aspects of heritage, such as architecture, traditions, and historical landmarks.
“A comprehensive approach will ensure that Sarawak’s unique legacy is celebrated and passed down to future generations while also promoting cultural tourism and community pride,” she said.
Mazlan, Chung, and Suhana also collectively voiced hopes for the GPS government to introduce initiatives such as state-funded medical insurance, tax exemptions for the B40 group, and measures to regulate price hikes and ensure affordable housing.
These steps, they believed, are crucial to easing financial pressures and improving the quality of life for all Sarawakians.
