Sarawak, a model of unity and stability under Tun Wan Junaidi, says Premier

KUCHING: Sarawak looks forward to a prosperous and peaceful region that exemplifies unity for other regions, driven by the leadership of Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar. 

During the grand parade in conjunction with Wan Junaidi’s official 78th birthday celebration at the Padang Merdeka this morning (Oct 12), Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg lauded the Head of State’s services and contributions in defending Sarawak’s rights and ensuring that the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) is respected and recognised in the Malaysian Constitution.

“Since taking on the role of Head of State, Tun Wan Junaidi’s leadership has been evident as a highly experienced figure who is approachable and always warm in his interactions with people from various backgrounds and standings.

“I am confident that Tun’s wisdom as the Head of State will continue to strengthen Sarawak as a symbol of unity and stability in this country, which is a vital pillar for the economic development of this Land of the Hornbill,” he said.

He added Wan Junaidi is a figure who has dedicated his service with unwavering commitment throughout his tenure in various capacities, even when faced with challenges and limitations for the sake of the homeland. 

“This reflects the fighting spirit of Sarawak’s true sons and daughters, who will continue to move forward with the motto ‘Agi Idup Agi Ngelaban’ (As Long as I Live, I’ll Fight), despite facing many obstacles.

“Therefore, I call upon all Sarawakians to emulate the resilience and determination of His Excellency Tun in serving and contributing to society, the state, and the nation, wherever you may be,” he said. 

On another note, Abang Johari said Sarawak’s economy, driven by the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, has proven capable of elevating Sarawak’s economy to a significantly higher level compared to 10 years ago.

“The World Bank continues to recognise Sarawak as a high-income economy in 2023, with a Gross National Income (GNI) per capita at the level of USD16,500, compared to USD15,000 in 2022, surpassing the threshold of USD14,005 set by the World Bank for 2023.

“Additionally, Sarawak’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has increased to RM146 billion. Meanwhile, the government’s revenue has also continued to rise, reaching RM13.1 billion for 2023, and God willing, I am confident it will increase further for this year,” he said. 

The Premier added various initiatives are being implemented to transform Sarawak’s economy into one based on zero-carbon and green energy initiatives, in line with global efforts to address climate change.

“I am confident that under the leadership of Tun, Sarawak will continue to be a prosperous and peaceful region with the aspiration of becoming a green economic powerhouse in this country and the Asian region,” he said. 

He also said Sarawak is renowned for its multi-ethnic, religious, and cultural society, yet remains united. 

“The spirit of mutual respect, unity, and harmony that has long been nurtured is one of the main pillars of this state’s success.

“The unity we have built together should not be taken lightly but must be further strengthened, with our institution of the Yang di-Pertua Negeri as the foundation of understanding between races and religions,” he said.