The recent anonymous two-parter article titled ‘Abang Jo’s Luck Is Running Out’ in a national news portal is nothing short of a smear campaign aimed at discrediting the awesome leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
The article presents a highly negative, biased narrative, while it conveniently overlooks the numerous accomplishments and sound policies that have propelled Sarawak under our leader’s dedicated guidance.
Firstly, let us address the issue of the purported bank acquisition. Yes, Abang Johari did mention the ambition to purchase Affin Bank, and while there have been delays, attributing these to failure or incompetence is both misleading and premature.
We all know the country’s banking sector is heavily regulated, and any large-scale acquisition requires stringent oversight from regulatory bodies. These are not ‘minor technical issues’ as the writer so simplistically and conveniently puts it – they are necessary steps to ensure a responsible and legal acquisition.
Patience, due diligence, and proper governance are attributes of effective and successful leadership, and Abang Johari’s pursuit of Affin Bank is a reflection of his vision for Sarawak’s financial autonomy and economic growth. One should not confuse prudence with failure.
On the issue of oil and gas rights, it’s true that negotiations with Petronas are ongoing. But to suggest that our Premier lacks the strength to secure Sarawak’s rightful share is an underestimation of his resolve.
Under Abang Johari’s leadership in just seven years, Sarawak has already achieved significant milestones, such as reclaiming rights over oil and gas in accordance with the Oil Mining Ordinance of 1958 and the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
These achievements were not handed to Sarawak but achieved through strategic negotiation and determination. The insinuation that Sarawak will receive only a ‘tiny fraction’ of what it deserves is baseless.
If history has shown us anything, it is that Sarawak has consistently punched above its weight, especially under Abang Johari’s leadership and guidance.
The accusation that the Premier is ‘closer to an enemy than a friend’ of Putrajaya is laughable. Sarawak under Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) has always maintained a healthy balance of claiming state rights while working constructively with the federal government. It is no secret that Sarawak is fiercely protective of its autonomy – a stance enshrined in the very fabric of its governance since the days of Pehin Sri Adenan Satem.
Abang Johari’s leadership continues this proud tradition, ensuring Sarawak’s development, its people’s prosperity, and its natural resources are respected and protected. He is NOT an enemy of Putrajaya; he is a CHAMPION of Sarawak, standing tall to ensure Sarawak’s voice is heard and respected.
As for the claim that Sarawak is being ‘conquered’ by Putrajaya because it allegedly isn’t receiving its fair share of Dewan Rakyat seats, let’s set the record straight. The promise of 35 per cent representation in Parliament, as agreed upon in MA63, is a complex issue that requires bipartisan cooperation and constitutional amendments.
It’s a national matter, not a reflection of any failure on our Premier’s part. The fact that this issue has been taken up by successive governments, both federal and state, shows that it is not being ignored.
To imply that Putrajaya is deliberately weakening Sarawak by withholding this promise is nothing more than political posturing, designed to sow distrust between the Sarawak and federal governments.
The writer also bizarrely attempts to draw an analogy between Abang Johari and an ‘old king’ from a 2,000-year-old Buddhist story, portraying the Premier as ineffective, outdated, and reliant on luck.
Such rhetoric only demonstrates the writer’s desperation to undermine a leader who has consistently delivered for Sarawak. Under Abang Johari’s leadership, Sarawak has embarked on numerous ground-breaking initiatives, including the digital economy, hydrogen energy production, and robust infrastructure development.
Still remember the year when Abang Johari took over the state’s leadership – in 2017? Just to refresh the memories of those who might have conveniently forgotten about Sarawak’s official takeover of the Bakun hydroelectric power (HEP) dam, in the very first year of his premiership (then chief ministership) he successfully negotiated the historic takeover of the dam, partly due to his close relationship with Putrajaya.
These initiatives have positioned Sarawak not only as a regional leader but also as a global player in renewable energy and technological innovation.
Abang Johari is not merely riding on a wave of fortune. His leadership is the result of careful planning, long-term vision, and a genuine desire to improve Sarawak’s future.
His focus on the digital economy is a prime example. Sarawak’s bold investment in digital infrastructure has seen the state connect even its remotest areas to high-speed internet, an essential foundation for future growth. This is not luck – this is leadership with foresight.
Let us not forget Sarawak’s international standing under Abang Johari’s stewardship. His leadership has earned Sarawak accolades beyond our borders, evidenced by the invitation to host the Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games) in 2027.
This honour reflects Sarawak’s stability, capability, and infrastructure, qualities that have been nurtured under Abang Johari’s administration. The recent overwhelming success of Sarawak as hosts of SUKMA 2024, reputedly the best ever Malaysia Games, is proof of Abang Johari and the state leaders’ farsightedness and ability; no, it was not pure luck!
The article’s insinuation that Sarawak’s relationship with Putrajaya has always been strained due to Abang Johari’s so-called defiance misses the point entirely. Sarawak’s strength lies in its ability to stand firm when necessary and cooperate when beneficial.
Our Premier has successfully navigated this delicate balance, ensuring that Sarawak retains its autonomy while securing federal support for its development.
The state election in 2026 will undoubtedly be a critical moment for Sarawak. However, to suggest that Abang Johari’s leadership will crumble under pressure is to misread the political landscape.
Sarawakians know well what our Premier has accomplished, and they recognise the value of having a leader who puts Sarawak first.
The writer – who unashamedly decided to hide behind anonymity – can throw as many baseless accusations and pessimistic predictions as he or she wishes, but the facts speak for themselves: Sarawak has grown stronger under Abang Johari’s leadership, and this momentum shows no signs of reversing.
As Sarawakians, we should not be swayed by unfounded criticism and sensationalism. Instead, we should stand united in recognising the accomplishments of our Premier and support his continued efforts to lead Sarawak into a prosperous and independent future.
Abang Jo’s luck is not running out – because his success has never been about luck. It’s been about strong, effective, and visionary leadership!
And to the anonymous and mercenary writer, I have this parting advice: stop hiding behind your mother’s skirt!
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of New Sarawak Tribune.
