Wan Junaidi a unifying figure for Sarawak

KUCHING: The lifelong service of Head of State, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, in safeguarding Sarawak’s security and serving the state and country has made him a unifying figure for the people, says Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

He said Wan Junaidi’s journey from serving in the security forces to becoming a lawyer, politician, federal Cabinet member, Dewan Negara president and eventually Sarawak’s Head of State reflected his extensive contributions to the state and nation.

“Having reached the age of 80 after a long journey of service and dedication to the state and country, it is fitting that Tun now stands as a figure who serves as a unifying symbol for the people of Sarawak,” he said.

Abang Johari was speaking at the parade held in conjunction with Wan Junaidi’s 80th official birthday at Padang Merdeka here today (Oct 10).

He said Wan Junaidi’s service with the Police Field Force in the Rajang Area Security Command (RASCOM) during the communist insurgency was an important part of Sarawak’s history that should not be forgotten.

He said Wan Junaidi had demonstrated courage and sacrifice in defending Sarawak against communist threats, contributing to the state’s peace and security.

Abang Johari added that Wan Junaidi’s experience in security, law, constitutional affairs and national administration had given him a broad perspective on governance and the challenges of leading the state and country.

He said the Head of State’s role as a unifying institution is particularly important in bringing together Sarawak’s multiracial and multireligious population.

“As the head of the GPS-led state government, I sincerely hope that the unity fostered under the leadership of Tun will continue to drive Sarawak’s transformation towards becoming the most developed state in the country by 2030, God-willing,” he said.

He reiterated that Wan Junaidi’s decades of public service had earned him an important place in Sarawak’s history and that his role as Head of State remained central to fostering unity as the state pursued its development aspirations.