Tun Dr Wan Junaidi's contributions in strengthening the MA63 are worthy of remembrance

KUCHING, 10 Oct: The contributions of the elder of Sarawak State, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar in strengthening Sarawak's position under the 1963 Malaysian Treaty (MA63) are well remembered as part of an important historical development of this state institution.

Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said that while serving as Minister in the Prime Minister's Department responsible for Parliament and Legislation, Tun Wan Junaidi played an important role in strengthening MA63 status through amendments to the Federal Constitution.

"The amendment which was passed by the Dewan Rakyat in December 2021 and fully came into force on 11 February 2022 is part of a larger effort to strengthen Sarawak's position within the Federation", he said.

He said this through the text of a speech read by the Deputy Prime Minister of Sarawak, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embassy at the Other Religious Thanksgiving Council in conjunction with the Birthday Celebration of His Excellency the Most Elderly of the State of Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar last night.

Brother Johari emphasized that the struggle of MA63 was not an individual effort but involved the Government of Sarawak, Federal Government, Parliament as well as many leaders and officials over decades.

However, he emphasized that Tun Dr Wan Junaidi's contribution in strengthening the constitutional foundations related to MA63 deserved recognition as part of Sarawak institutional history.

At the same time, he described Tun Wan Junaidi's 80 years as a long journey packed with experience, sacrifice, responsibility, service and wisdom.

He further said, Throughout his eight decades of life, Tun Dr Wan Junaidi has gone through various phases, ranging from security services, legal spheres, politics and national administration before assuming the trust as the Yang di-Elder of Sarawak State.

He noted that the journey showed a life of service and set an example for future generations.

Brother Johari also expressed on behalf of the Government of Sarawak, UNIFOR and the entire people of the state congratulations on Tun Wan Junaidi's 80th Birthday and recognized his contribution and devotional service to Sarawak. -TVS