The people’s Governor, a statesman beyond protocol

Wan Junaidi and his wife, Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi.

I am suggesting this title because it aptly describes my Head of State’s approachable nature while stressing his stature as a respected leader.

Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, Sarawak’s Governor, embodies humility, warmth, and a genuine connection with the people of Sarawak.

Despite the high stature of his office, he remains one of the most approachable and down-to-earth leaders in the country.

His personal journey, from his early days as a policeman to the position of Governor of Malaysia’s largest state, reflects his resilience, dedication, and commitment to public service.

Over the years, he has earned the respect of both Sarawak’s political elite and its common citizens — and Malayan leaders — thanks to his unwavering focus on the welfare of the people.

Born on Feb 1, 1946, in Kampung Pendam, Simunjan, Wan Junaidi’s modest beginnings shaped his personality. From an early age, he demonstrated a natural inclination toward hard work and perseverance.

His early education at Sekolah Rakyat Kampung Pendam and later at Maderasah Melayu in Kuching, though simple, provided the foundation for his future achievements.

A journey through service

Wan Junaidi’s career began in 1964 when he joined the police force, an experience that shaped much of his character. He was not just any policeman; he was a warrior in the thick of Sarawak’s communist insurgency, serving with the Police Field Force (PFF) in Miri and other regions.

He spent years fighting in the dense jungles of Sarawak, engaged in multiple skirmishes with communist insurgents. This experience, facing life-threatening situations daily, strengthened his resolve and commitment to serve the people dedicatedly.

After his commendable service in the police force, where he held various roles, including that of Chief Training Officer at the Police Training School in Kuching, Wan Junaidi sought a new challenge. He pursued his legal studies in England, earning an LL.B. with Second Class Honors from the University of Buckingham and subsequently securing his Degree of Utter Barrister from the Council of Legal Education, London.

His intellectual prowess and sharp legal mind were evident early on, and he quickly rose through the ranks upon returning to Sarawak, becoming Chief Prosecution Officer of the police in Sarawak.

His transition from the police force to law and eventually to politics illustrates a man of diverse talents and relentless ambition.

His political career, which began in 1983 when he joined Pesaka Bumiputra Bersatu (PBB), spanned over 40 years.

As a Member of Parliament for 32 of those years, Wan Junaidi represented two constituencies: Batang Lupar and Santubong.

His long tenure in politics was marked by his consistent focus on the welfare of his constituents, particularly in rural Sarawak, where development was often slow to arrive.

Hands-on leadership style

Wan Junaidi’s connection with the ordinary people of Sarawak is perhaps his most defining trait. Unlike many politicians who lose touch with the grassroots after ascending to high office, he remained accessible.

He and his wife Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi are known for frequenting their favourite coffee shop in Kuching, where they mingle with regular patrons, engaging in conversations about the everyday issues that matter to the people.

This genuine engagement has earned him the affection and respect of Sarawakians from all walks of life.

Another remarkable aspect of Wan Junaidi’s leadership is his disregard for protocol when it comes to serving the people.

He is not one to wait for formalities when disaster strikes. Be it a flood, landslide, or any other calamity, Wan Junaidi is known to visit the affected areas promptly, offering comfort and assistance to those in need.

His hands-on approach during such crises has endeared him further to the people, reinforcing his image as a leader who truly cares.

Throughout his career, he has exemplified the values of humility, service, and resilience. As a governor, his willingness to invite journalists and close associates to his official residence for informal dinners and breakfasts highlights his openness.

His home, the Astana, is not a fortress of isolation but rather a place of gathering, reflection, and genuine conversation. It is in these intimate settings that Wan Junaidi shares his insights, often drawing on his vast experience as a policeman, lawyer, and politician to offer perspectives on governance and the future of Sarawak.

A leader for all

Wan Junaidi’s contributions extend beyond Sarawak’s borders. On the international stage, he represented Malaysia at numerous conferences, seminars, and dialogues.

Notably, he delivered a speech at the United Nations General Assembly in 1991, 1993, and 2005, positioning Malaysia as a progressive, moderate Islamic nation.

His participation in the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) meetings, including a historic speech at the Kremlin in Moscow, further reflects his role in advancing Malaysia’s diplomatic standing.

His involvement with the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) and the Asean Parliamentary Association (AIPA) also highlights his efforts to foster regional cooperation and promote Malaysia’s interests on the global stage.

Over the years, he made diplomatic visits to countries such as the United States, China and Japan, always advocating for Malaysia’s place in the world.

Wan Junaidi’s accolades are numerous. He has received both federal and state awards — including the title ‘Tun’, the nation’s highest award and ‘Pehin Sri’, Sarawak’s highest award.

These honours, while significant, are mere tokens of recognition for a man who has dedicated his life to public service.

His tenure as Sarawak’s Governor marks the pinnacle of a career that has spanned more than five decades. However, what sets Wan Junaidi apart is not just his impressive résumé or the titles he holds, but his unyielding connection to the people of Sarawak.

He is a leader who has never lost sight of the reason he entered public service — to improve the lives of his fellow Sarawakians.

In many ways, Wan Junaidi represents the heart and soul of Sarawak. From his early days patrolling the streets as a policeman to his role as the state’s highest-ranking official, his journey is one of service, humility, and deep-rooted love for his homeland. It is this combination of traits that makes him not only a respected leader but also a beloved figure among the people of Sarawak.

In his capacity as Governor, he continues to embody the values that Sarawakians hold dear — honesty, humility, and an unwavering commitment to the common good.

All the best Tun, may the Almighty, in His infinite wisdom and boundless love, bless you abundantly and keep you safe in the palm of His hand.