Valuable insights from DUN Speaker

“Politics without history has no roots; history without politics bears no fruit. Therefore, one must know yesterday’s history in order to understand and appreciate today’s politics,”

On Wednesday morning, I had the privilege of stepping into the esteemed office of Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar, the Speaker of the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN).

Accompanied by my editor-in-chief, special editor and colleague, this courtesy visit was not merely a professional obligation but a rare opportunity to immerse ourselves in the inner workings of Sarawak’s political landscape and gain insights from a seasoned statesman.

It is not often that one gets the opportunity to sit personally with the Speaker, given his protected status as a key figure in Sarawak’s legislative affairs.

From the moment we entered his office, adorned with symbols of Sarawak’s rich history and the trappings of legislative authority, a sense of reverence and anticipation filled the air.

Tan Sri greeted us warmly, exuding a blend of authority, humility, and a genuine interest in fostering dialogue on matters ranging from legislative processes to the aspirations and challenges facing Sarawak’s diverse populace.

What immediately struck me was the Speaker’s profound passion for Sarawak and its people.

His decades-long career in public service shone through as he eloquently spoke about the intricacies of legislative decision-making and the delicate balance required to represent the interests of various constituencies.

It became clear that his role extended far beyond ceremonial duties; it was about upholding the sanctity of democracy and ensuring equitable representation for all Sarawakians.

Throughout our conversation, Tan Sri emphasised the importance of inclusivity in governance—a cornerstone of Sarawak’s social cohesion.

He proudly highlighted Sarawak’s unique legislative practice, where English, Malay, and any native language can be spoken in the august House.

This is an unparalleled feature not just in Malaysia but globally thus deserving protection and preservation.

Tan Sri also delved into the historical significance of Sarawak Day on how July 22, 1963, marks not just a date on the calendar but a profound moment when Sarawak became a nation.

“On July 22 to September 16 in 1963, Sarawak was a nation. What does that mean? It means a defined territory with a landmass, continental shelf, seabed, subsoil, sea, and airspace.

Once in a lifetime opportunity…My colleague, Moeka (left) and I take a photo with Mohamad Asfia (centre) in his office.

“As a nation, Sarawak had a government, permanent population that is not migratory, constitution, head of state, and system of laws.

“In short, the Sarawakians are a definite people. That is what I mean by a nation and that is what July 22 means to the people of Sarawak,” he said.

Reflecting on this milestone, he stressed the importance of understanding and celebrating Sarawak’s unique identity and contributions to the federation of Malaysia.

“Sarawak Day does not mean much to those who do not know the history of Southeast Asia and Sarawak.

“For Sarawakians especially the younger generation, they must know and understand the history and background,” he said.

He spoke passionately about preserving the cultural heritage and distinctiveness that define Sarawakians as a people with a rich history and a promising future.

As we exchanged perspectives on Sarawak’s evolving political landscape, guided by Tan Sri’s insightful commentary, it became evident that his leadership was grounded in a deep commitment to transparency, accountability, and the principles of democratic governance.

His steadfast dedication to serving the people of Sarawak left an indelible impression on us.

Leaving the Speaker’s office, I reflected on the privilege of witnessing firsthand the dedication and wisdom of a statesman.

Tan Sri’s unwavering commitment to public service serves as a profound source of inspiration, underscoring the impact of effective leadership in fostering a thriving democratic society.

Moreover, he shared anecdotes from his early days in public service, illustrating the evolution of Sarawak’s political dynamics and the transformative impact of legislative reforms.

His experiences highlighted the importance of continuity and adaptability in addressing contemporary challenges while honouring Sarawak’s rich cultural heritage.

As we concluded our visit, Tan Sri reiterated his unwavering commitment to serving Sarawak with integrity and dedication.

“I was appointed as Deputy Speaker in 1995, a position I held for five years before assuming the role of Speaker in 2000, where I have served continuously since.

“In November next year, I will mark my 25^th year as the Speaker. Whether my term is renewed or otherwise is ultimately decided by the Head of State and the Premier,” he said.

Tan Sri’s leadership exemplifies the principles of servant leadership, where the needs and aspirations of the people are paramount.

With this enlightening experience, I am eager to delve deeper into the dynamic landscape of Sarawak’s governance, further exploring the initiatives and challenges that define its path forward under the guidance of leaders like Tan Sri.