Dr Sim: My remarks on Sarawakians working abroad not meant to belittle them

KUCHING (Jan 13): Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said his recent remarks relating to Sarawakians having chosen to pursue their careers overseas was never meant to negate, criticise or belittle them.

The Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government said his comments were made in the context of reflecting on Sarawak’s current stage of development.

In referring to recent media reports and online comments surrounding his remarks on Sarawakian talents working abroad, Dr Sim said: “I wish to provide a brief clarification to ensure that my original intent would be properly understood.

“While we have produced many successful talents from Sarawak, we must also focus on developing and retaining talents for Sarawak itself, considering we are on a strong growth trajectory.

“Sarawak is proud of every Sarawakian who has achieved success on the international stage through hard work, dedication, and ability,” he said in a statement.

Dr Sim said when talented Sarawakians seek opportunities abroad, this should not be seen as a personal shortcoming; rather, it reflects the reality that Sarawak must continue improving the quality of opportunities, professional pathways, and living environment needed to support and retain talent.

“This is a challenge that leaders must address honestly and responsibly,” he added.

Dr Sim said for this reason, he had consistently emphasised, including during the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sittings, the importance of ‘engaging Sarawakians everywhere, including those overseas, as partners in Sarawak’s development and nation-building’.

According to Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) president, the state is at a critical stage of transformation and in need of talents, experiences, ideas and commitment more than ever.

“The Sarawak government remains committed to strengthening the economic structure and living environment so that talents would be encouraged to stay, and they are welcomed to contribute in whatever form possible.

“No matter where you are in the world, Sarawak will always be your home. Your achievements matter, your experience matters, and everyone regardless where you are, can play a role in contributing towards collective building of our homeland,” he said.

At the Kuching Heritage Race (KHR) appreciation dinner hosted by the Kuching Heritage Awareness Society (KHAS) last Thursday, Dr Sim was quoted as describing Sarawakians who chose not to return to their homeland to contribute to the state’s development, as “being not truly successful”.