Unity, talent contribution vital to drive green economy

SIBU: Members of the Tiang clan have been urged to leverage their diverse talents and collective strength to contribute meaningfully to Sarawak’s ongoing economic transformation and nation-building.

The call was made by Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing, and Local Government, Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee, during his address at the Tiang Clan Association’s 15th Anniversary Dinner held at a prominent hotel here on Saturday.

Tiang highlighted that while the Tiang clan represents a relatively small population share, the strong kinship and shared responsibility among its members serve as a foundation for mutual support and advancement.

“Tiang is a small family, but we are mostly related. Because of this, we need to support and carry each other’s burdens. That family spirit drives us to work hard and protect our honour,” he said.

Drawing a parallel between the clan and the state, Tiang noted that Sarawak similarly possesses a small population of 2.5 million relative to its vast geographical size. Despite this, he emphasised that the state is rich in natural resources and currently guided by strong forward-looking leadership.

He credited Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg for initiating a strategic shift in Sarawak’s economic model — transitioning from a traditional reliance on natural resources like logging, oil, and gas toward a sustainable green economy aligned with global trends.

“This transformation is designed not just for the present, but for generations to come,” Tiang said, pointing to the establishment of Sarawak’s Sovereign Wealth Future Fund as a key policy step to safeguard state wealth generated today for future generations.

Reflecting on the heritage of early migrants, he noted that while early ancestors arrived from China as original settlers, subsequent generations are now deeply rooted, established Sarawakians.

With clan members thriving across various professional fields, Tiang urged the younger generation to actively engage in Sarawak’s development.

Highlighting the state’s financial independence and focus on self-reliance, he referenced the successful takeover process of Bintulu Port, noting that Sarawak is investing its own revenue directly back into projects that benefit its people.

Touching briefly on the broader political landscape, Tiang noted that Sarawak continues to maintain strong political stability and social harmony, positioning it as a model for the country.

In contrast to federal political shifts, he emphasised the importance of elected leaders remaining steadfast in their roles to fulfill their mandates to the public through full terms of service rather than stepping down prematurely.

During the anniversary event, the association honoured 38 senior members aged between 70 and 92, comprising 22 women and 16 men, in recognition of their contributions.

Additionally, academic study incentives were presented to the children of clan members to encourage educational excellence.

Among those present was the association president, Tiang Guan Kwong.