If the Prime Minister can come, the two Deputy Prime Ministers can also come to the Senate meetings why can’t the ministers come? Is this place too low for the ministers to come? This is the upper house of Parliament.
— Wan Junaidi, reminding Cabinet ministers to respect the parliamentary institution by attending its sessions to answer questions posed to ministries
Sarawak welcomes a new Governor —Tun Dr. Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, the eighth Yang Dipertua Negeri (TYT). His appointment as the Head of State was made under Article 1 of the Sarawak Constitution for four years, effective Jan 26, 2024 until Jan 26, 2028.
In the intricate tapestry of the country’s politics, Wan Junaidi emerges as a figure of profound significance — his journey marked by unwavering dedication, transformative leadership, and a deep-rooted commitment to Sarawak and the nation.
His ascent to this esteemed position symbolises not only his personal achievements but also represents the rich tapestry of Malaysia’s political landscape.
Wan Junaidi’s narrative is one of resilience, service, and unwavering loyalty to his country where his early years were defined by valour and sacrifice, as he stood on the frontlines defending the country’s sovereignty against communist terrorists.
His courageous exploits while serving the Police Field Force (renamed General Operations Force), fighting against the North Kalimantan Communist Party, underscore his commitment to safeguard the nation’s integrity — a commitment that would thread through every facet of his illustrious career.
But what touched me very much was the poignant moment of Wan Junaidi visiting his late wife Datin Seri Fiona Sim Abdullah’s grave shortly after arriving in Kuching on Saturday (Jan 27) upon receiving the appointment letter as Sarawak’s Head of State from the King in Kuala Lumpur. He was accompanied by his wife, Toh Puan Fauziah Mohamad Sanusi, and other family members. He later observed the Zohor prayer at Masjid Jamek.
It expresses the depth of his character — a man grounded in humility, familial bonds and a profound sense of duty. It is a testament to his humanity amidst the corridors of power, reminding me of the enduring importance of empathy and connection in leadership.
Wan Junaidi’s colourful and illustrious political journey is marked by a series of remarkable milestones, each reflective of his tireless pursuit of service and reform; his journey as an elected representative, spanning more than 30 years, reflects a deep-seated commitment to the democratic process and the welfare of his constituents.
From his early parliamentary victories to his tenure as the Member of Parliament for Santubong, Wan Junaidi’s leadership resonated with the people, earning him their full trust and admiration. He always found time for his people, never ever once turning down anyone coming to see him in his office or residence.
At the federal level, his tenure was characterised by a succession of key ministerial appointments, each allowing him the opportunity to leave an indelible mark on the country’s political landscape. As Deputy Speaker of the Dewan Rakyat and later Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department, Wan Junaidi spearheaded several important reforms aimed at strengthening parliamentary democracy.
His instrumental role in amending the Federal Constitution to address issues such as party hopping and restoring Sarawak’s rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) underscored his unwavering commitment to justice and equity — displaying his deep-rooted loyalty to his beloved state, Sarawak.
I admire Wan Junaidi’s stewardship as the 19th President of the Dewan Negara which heralded a new era of legislative reform, marked by his steadfast commitment to revitalise Parliament’s role as a beacon of democracy and accountability. Personally, I think he has set an extremely high standard as Senate President which future presidents might find it hard to keep up with.
His efforts to revive the Parliamentary Services Act 1963 and enhance parliamentary independence stand as a testament to his visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to democratic ideals.
Beyond politics, Wan Junaidi’s literary skills offer a glimpse into the multifaceted dimensions of his character. As a talented writer and chronicler of Sarawak and Malaysian history, his works serve as a testament to his intellectual curiosity and deep-seated passion for knowledge. Through his writings, he seeks to illuminate the country’s rich political heritage, inspiring future generations.
Among his published books is ‘A Policemen’ based on his 13 years experiences in the police force which was launched in 2014. He co-authored ‘Crimson Tide over Borneo — Untold Police Stories and Cessation of the Sarawak Communist Insurgency (1952-1990)’ with journalist James Ritchie, which was officially launched in 2011 by Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud, the then chief minister.
Others are ‘Evolusi Parlimen Dan Evolusi Speaker Parlimen Malaysia’, ‘Falsafah Undang-Undang Ilmu Berpengakap’, ‘Journal of BIMP-EAGA Jamboree 2000’, and ‘Kosa Kata Melayu Sarawak’.
He is a walking encyclopaedia; a constitutional expert, he is equally at home with topics on social issues, sports and academia. Occasionally I consult him on several issues and topics and he is ever ready to oblige. At one time I had to wake him up with a call close to midnight for his views on a constitutional matter, and he took the trouble to send me a lengthy explanation on WhatsApp. That’s Wan Junaidi, always ready to serve at anytime, anywhere.
As he embarks on his tenure as Sarawak’s Head of State, he carries with him a legacy defined by integrity, compassion and unwavering dedication to the common good. His pledge to serve Sarawak with diligence and devotion underscores his enduring commitment to the welfare of the people he has been entrusted to lead.
In a world marked by uncertainty and upheaval, Wan Junaidi’s leadership offers a beacon of hope to Sarawak — and the nation — a testament to the enduring power of service, humility and unwavering resolve in the face of adversity.
His appointment as the Governor represents a crowning achievement in a lifetime dedicated to the service of his nation, and his journey is a testament to the transformative power of leadership grounded in integrity, empathy and unwavering dedication to the common good.
As he embarks on a new chapter, his legacy will endure as a guiding light for Sarawak and its people — a reminder of the enduring power of leadership rooted in service, humility and the unwavering pursuit of justice. And with Premier Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg ably helming the government, Sarawakians couldn’t have asked for better leaders.
We are a fortunate lot. With both leading the Land of the Hornbill, expect Sarawak to achieve developed status earlier than the targeted 2030.
All the best Tun!
The views expressed here are those of the columnist and do not necessarily represent the views of New Sarawak Tribune.
