Balingian rep values family, friendship and community

BALINGIAN assemblyman Abdul Yakub Arbi balances the demands of public service with an appreciation for family, friendship and the community he represents. 

Beyond politics, he finds comfort in life’s simple pleasures and the natural beauty of Sarawak, offering a glimpse into the person behind his public role.

In a conversation with Sarawak Tribune, Abdul Yakub shared how he manages his daily commitments, spends his leisure time and stays grounded beyond his role as an elected representative.

Q: How has your day been so far? 

Alhamdulillah, the day has been good, although quite busy with meetings, discussions and other commitments, especially during the DUN sitting. It’s all part of the responsibility, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve the people. We just have to manage our time well and make sure every task is given proper attention.

Q: What is one thing people might not know about you outside of politics?

Outside of my responsibilities as a representative, I’m just an ordinary person who values family, friendships and spending time with the people around me. I believe it’s important to stay grounded, listen to others and never forget where we come from.

Q: When you have free time away from work, what do you usually enjoy doing?

Whenever I have some free time, I enjoy taking a break from the busy schedule, spending time with family and catching up with friends. Sometimes, the simplest things are the most meaningful. Having some quiet time also helps me recharge before getting back to work.

Q: What’s your go-to food or favourite place to eat whenever you’re back in your constituency?

Whenever I’m back in Balingian, I always appreciate the opportunity to enjoy local food and spend time with the community. For me, food is not just about eating; it’s also about bringing people together, catching up with residents and listening to their stories. The local food in our constituency has its own charm, and that’s something I always look forward to.

Q: If you could take a short break from your busy schedule, where would you go and why?

If I could take a short break, I would choose somewhere peaceful, preferably close to nature. Sarawak has so many beautiful places, from our rivers and beaches to our green landscapes. Sometimes, a little time away from the busy schedule is all we need to recharge, appreciate our surroundings and return with renewed energy to serve the people.