S’wak Premier to address environmental sustainability in Azerbaijan this November

KUCHING (Sept 23): Sarawak’s unwavering commitment towards environmental sustainability has once again earned international recognition, this time in Azerbaijan.

In this regard, Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said he has been invited to give a talk on the state’s experience of environmental management in Azerbaijan’s capital of Baku this November.

“Two weeks ago, I was in Singapore (for the Asia Pacific Petroleum Conference 2024) and now I have received a request from Azerbaijan to share my views on environmental management,” he said at the Gedong-level Maulidur Raul celebration in Gedong yesterday.

In May, Azerbaijan ambassador to Malaysia Irfan Davudov when paying a courtesy call to Abang Johari, had invited the Premier to attend the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku, which is scheduled to take place in November.

On a separate matter, Abang Johari in his speech also touched on the Sarawak government’s commitment in developing Gedong by taking inspiration from the great leadership of Prophet Muhammad.

“The Prophet Muhammad developed Medina with knowledge and wisdom, and we should emulate this and apply a similar approach in Gedong,” he said.

The Gedong assemblyman also said that the development in his constituency would be carried out comprehensively, covering the Samarahan area and the surrounding villages.

“Development here will not only be focused solely on physical infrastructure but also on human capital development.

“Prophet Muhammad had always emphasised on the importance of knowledge and as such, we also need to expand our knowledge to develop the society,” he added.

During the event, Abang Johari presented prizes to winners of the Maulidur Rasul contingent, which saw Surau As-Sobirin from Kampung Tengah Lama Gedong emerging as the Gedong-level Maulidur Rasul Parade champion.

Nurul Huda Mosque from Kampung Ensengei and Surau Assyakirin, Kanchong Baru Gedong captured second and third place, respectively.

Among those present were Simunjan assemblyman Awla Dris, Batang Sadong MP Rodiyah Sapiee, former Gedong assemblyman Dato Sri Naroden Majais, and Samarahan Resident Mohamad Irwan Bahari Bujang.