Biography out on life and times of Tun Openg

KUCHING:  After 16 years of meticulous research and relentless dedication, biographer Datuk Dr. Jeniri Amir will be unveiling  the first-ever biography of Tun Abang Openg Abang Sapiee,  a monumental figure in Sarawak’s history.

The book entitled ‘Gabenor Pertama Sarawak: Tun Openg’ offers an in-depth look into the life of a renowned political figure in Sarawak, shedding light on his extraordinary journey and profound impacts.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg will be officiating at the book launch on Sunday (Aug 4) at Hikmah Exchange Event Centre here.

Datuk Dr Jeniri Amir

Jeniri said he embarked on this ambitious project back in 2008 and the quest to document Openg’s life led him to various corners of the globe including London and Singapore where he delved into archives and libraries.

“Writing about someone of Tun Openg’s stature is no small feat. The journey involved meticulous research where I went through countless documents and newspapers including those dating from the British colonial times. It was a challenging yet incredibly fulfilling task,” he said.

The inspiration behind this biography stemmed from Jeniri’s realisation that few written works exist about Sarawak’s leaders.

This book marks his third biography of a Sarawak governor, following those of Tun Pehin Sri Abang Muhammad Salahuddin and Tun Datuk Patinggi Abdul Rahman Ya’kub.

“Since 1963, there might be fewer than 25 biographies of Sarawak leaders. It is crucial to document the lives of our luminaries, especially our governors,” he said.

Jeniri said the biography spans 26 chapters, unfolding Openg’s life in a chronological narrative from his birth to his passing.

It covers his various roles, from his early days as a clerk in the Brooke administration to his promotion to senior officer of native affairs in Sarikei, and his appointment as a third-class magistrate in 1937, his special appointment by White Rajah Charles Vyner Brooke which led to his position on the state council and he was elevated to a second-class magistrate and became the first officer of native affairs in the Kuching Division just before World War II.

Inside the pages of ‘Gabenor Pertama Sarawak: Tun Openg’

The book also delves into his contributions during the British and Japanese occupations, his presidency of Majlis Islam Sarawak, and his role as a signatory to the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) in London.

“Tun Openg was an extraordinary leader during an extraordinary time. He was a visionary, an intelligent and humble leader, always in touch with the people and well-loved throughout Sarawak,”  he said.

Readers can expect to find inspiration and motivation within the pages of this biography.

By understanding Openg’s struggles, sacrifices, and the historical context of his life, Jeniri expressed hope for readers to gain valuable insights into Sarawak’s social and political landscape.

“The more we know about our history, the better we can navigate our future. Looking back helps us to look forward,” he said.