Minister urges patience, likens speculations on new Sarawak Governor to unpredictable weather forecast

Abdul Karim fielding questions from the press after officiating the grand opening of Kawasaki Kuching at Travilion Centre in Jalan Petanak on Jan 20, 2024.

By Karen Bong

KUCHING, Jan 20: Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah has urged Sarawakians to be patient amid swirling speculations about Tan Sri Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar potentially becoming the eighth Sarawak Governor.

Likening these rumours to weather forecasts which can be true or otherwise, Abdul Karim expressed confidence that any decision regarding the appointment of the next Sarawak Governor will be done in the best interest of the people and Sarawak.
He believes that the Sarawak Governor’s position will be helmed by someone capable and can perform their duties in accordance to the Constitution.

“I also got to know the rumours that he (Wan Junaidi) will assume the role as the eighth Sarawak Governor through news and social media. But whether it is true or not, I think all of us have to wait for the announcement.

“For me, this is just a prediction which can be true and not, just like weather forecast,” he said when approached by the press after officiating the grand opening of Kawasaki Kuching at Travilion Centre in Jalan Petanak here today.

When pressed about Wan Junaidi’s purported resignation as the Dewan Negara Speaker, Abdul Karim told reporters that this question should be directed to Wan Junaidi for confirmation and clarification.

“But I believe he should issue a statement in due time to explain his decision as there must be a reason behind it,” he said.

While urging both the press and Sarawakians to remain patient, Abdul Karim highlighted that the tenure of the current Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud, is approaching its end.

Regarding the extension of Taib’s term, Abdul Karim explained that it hinges on recommendations from the Sarawak government, the King, and the Conference of Rulers.

“We shall wait and see. Two days ago, the State Cabinet had a meeting, but this matter was not raised,” he added.

Abdul Karim also shared that Taib has just returned home to Kuching last night (Jan 19) from overseas.

“I was at the airport to welcome and receive him. I was very happy to see him, and he looks better than previously,” he said.

When questioned whether Taib has expressed his desire to step down as the Governor, Abdul Karim emphasised that only Taib can provide the answer.

“We all know that Tun (Taib) has served with dedication but age is catching up and it is not easy for him to fulfill his duties. All of us will go through the ageing phase, so I believe any position no matter how high, there will be a time to serve and retire from it,” he said. — DayakDaily