Kapit community backs Nanta in defending Sarawak’s rights under MA63

KAPIT (Feb 5): Local residents gathered at the Kapit Civic Centre to express their full support for Works Minister and Kapit MP Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi following his recent remarks on the notion of a ‘political divorce’.

The Malaysian Armed Forces Veterans Association (PVATM) Kapit branch and deputy chairman of the Kapit District Council (KDC) Martin Bilun said the show of solidarity reflected the people’s unwavering unity behind their leaders.

“The people of Kapit fully support our leader Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi and our Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg in defending Sarawak’s rights as enshrined under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63),” he said.

Matin noted that Nanta comes from a distinguished political lineage, being the grandson of the late Tun Jugah Barieng, one of the founding fathers of Malaysia, and the son of veteran politician Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Datuk Amar (Dr) Leonard Linggi Jugah.

He also condemned a recent statement by Perak Democratic Action Party (DAP) vice-chairman Dr Abdul Aziz Bari, who had called for Nanta’s resignation as federal cabinet minister over his use of the word ‘divorce’ in reference to Malaysia.’

“Nanta is both Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) and Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) secretary-general.

“Calling for his removal is an attempt to silence a Sarawakian leader who is speaking up for Sarawak’s rights,” he said.

He added that Nanta’s remarks stem from the growing frustration and apprehension among Sarawakians over continuous political bickering, racial and religious provocations, and attempts by certain quarters in Peninsular Malaysia to challenge Sarawak’[s constitutional position.

“We are frustrated with politicians who exploit race and religion, creating division and suspicion within our multiracial society,” he emphasised.

Martin stressed that Sarawakians desire a peaceful, harmonious and prosperous Malaysia built on unity.

Meanwhile, community leader Penghulu James Sandak said the presence of grassroots leaders, representatives from GPS, and non-governmental organisations demonstrated strong collective backing for Sarawak’s leadership.

Among those present were Political Secretary to the Premier, Watson Awan Jalai; KDC chairman Andy Lawrence; and community leaders Temenggong Wasli Nor, Pemanca Pasang Tubak, Pemanca Wong Kie Ing, Pemanca Bunsu Geringgang, Penghulu Jenny Yu Si Geok, Penghulu Sia Shui Poh, and Kapitan Ling Hang Pin.