KUCHING: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has rejected allegations that the state’s achievements stem from exploiting political dynamics, labeling such claims as part of a ‘jealousy’ narrative.
He said such views were misguided and failed to recognise the strategic efforts behind Sarawak’s economic progress.
Abang Johari described the jealousy narrative as a common human reaction but one that needed to be re-examined in the context of Sarawak’s achievements.
“If Sarawak is progressing, don’t be jealous. The narrative of jealousy, or ‘dengki’, is a part of human nature, but it’s important to understand that Sarawak’s growth is a result of careful economic management.
“If Sarawak progresses and prospers, Malaysia will also progress and prosper,” he said during the ‘Eight years with Premier Sarawak’ Townhall Session at Hikmah Exchange and Event Centre here last night (Jan 13).
The Premier attributed Sarawak’s success to managing scarce resources effectively, noting that its budget reflects the positive outcomes of this approach.
Additionally, he stressed on the importance of political stability in driving the state’s economic success, especially in the face of external challenges.
“Geopolitical tensions exist, and Sarawak is situated near the South China Sea, a region influenced by major powers, with Malaysia located within this sphere.
“If Malaysia were to face turmoil, what would happen? In such circumstances, Malaysia must have a strong and stable government to safeguard the nation and drive its development,” he added.
As such, Abang Johari reaffirmed Sarawak’s commitment to support the federal government’s efforts to ensure national stability.
He noted that Sarawak has supported leaders such as Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, and Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, as long as they provided stability for the country.
“Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) supports the unity government. That is politics. And for us in Sarawak, we want Malaysia to be strong and resilient, with a stable government,” he said.
