Sarawakians want Abang Johari to stay on as Premier: Munan

SIBU: Most Sarawakians would still prefer Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg to remain as Premier for a few more years, said Parti Bangsa Malaysia (PBM) secretary-general Munan Laja.

He described Abang Johari as a good and exemplary leader who had successfully led Sarawak’s multiracial population while driving the state’s development.

“Under his leadership, Sarawak has progressed well. We can see infrastructure development taking place, including in rural areas, and this is gradually reaching more communities,” he said in a statement today.

Munan was commenting on Abang Johari’s recent hint in Miri on Sunday that this year could be his final year in politics.

Speaking at the Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) Northern Sarawak, Abang Johari, 76, said one cannot go against nature “even your heart is young”.

Munan said the decision on whether Abang Johari should continue or make way for a successor should ultimately be left to Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB).

“Whether Abang Jo leaves or continues for a few more years, we leave it to PBB. We just want to see Sarawak prosper and his successor to be someone who is like him, if not better,” he said.

Munan said political leaders would eventually come and go, but what mattered was ensuring continuity in Sarawak’s development and maintaining the state’s progress.

“Leaders come and go. But I believe most Sarawakians would still prefer him to stay for some more years because of the great job he has done for Sarawak,” he said.

Munan said Abang Johari’s leadership had contributed to Sarawak’s development while maintaining stability in the state’s multiracial society.

He added that Sarawakians would ultimately want to see the state continue to prosper regardless of who takes over the leadership in the future.