Premier: Balanced development demands knowledge, integrity

KUCHING (March 7): The appreciation of knowledge and moral values must go hand in hand with physical and economic planning to ensure balanced and sustainable development in Sarawak.

In highlighting this, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the teachings of the Quran place strong emphasis on the importance of knowledge, which when combined with integrity, forms a vital foundation for the well-being of humanity and the environment.

“Therefore, Sarawak emphasises both aspects, including through initiatives such as free tertiary education for Sarawakian students, which aims to provide opportunities for the younger generation to acquire knowledge and contribute to the state’s ongoing transformation,” he said at the state-level ‘Nuzul Al-Quran for 1447 Hijrah / 2026’ in Masjid Bandar Sri Aman in Simanggang on Friday night.

The event was graced by Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, who came with his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi.

Adding on, Abang Johari highlighted the exemplary character of Prophet Muhammad, which Muslims should emulate.

“Our Prophet Muhammad was known as ‘Al-Amin’ (The Trustworthy One), highlighting his high level of integrity.

“This quality should serve as a guiding example for every individual in building a society that is knowledgeable, ethical and trustworthy,” he said.

The Premier also expressed gratitude that Muslims in Malaysia were able to observe the month of Ramadan and commemorate Nuzul Al-Quran in a peaceful and harmonious environment.

However, he also acknowledged that such peace was not enjoyed by all Muslims around the world.

“Some countries are currently affected by conflicts that have disrupted lives and caused suffering among their communities.”

Abang Johari attended the event with his daughter, Dayang Norjihan.

Also present were Sarawak Legislative Assembly Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar; State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki; and State Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.