LAWAS: Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg has expressed his sadness over the demise of his deputy, Tan Sri Datuk Amar Dr James Jemut Masing.
“I feel very sad when Masing breathed his last this morning (Oct 31). I certainly feel a great loss not only as a friend but it is also a great loss to the State Cabinet,” he said in a somber tone.
He was speaking to reporters after officiating at the launch of Saluran-MySRBN initiative at Kampung Tengah, Trusan today.
“Masing as a member of the State Cabinet has contributed a lot to the people in the rural areas and the Dayak community,” Abang Johari said.
The chief minister also said that he and Masing were able to carry out a balanced policy for all irrespective of race in the state.
“Masing has always been supportive of our management of the state. Moreover, since he became a Cabinet member under the leadership of Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud, the late Pehin Sri Adenan Satem and also me, his ideas… he has contributed a lot.
“My colleagues and I wish to extend our heartfelt condolences to his family,” he said.
When asked about his last meeting with Masing, Abang Johari said that the former had attended a meeting with him sometime this year but was unable to attend other meetings due to health reasons.
“Maybe God loves him more,” he said.
“Masing has left his legacy as the president of Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS), I am sure that his party will continue with the way he conducts his politics,” he said, adding that the former was also a very generous person.
As for who will continue to lead the Upper Rajang Development Agency (URDA), which Masing had helmed as chairman, Abang Johari said, “We will look into that after this.”
Masing, 72, breathed his last at 7.05am on Oct 31 in Normah Medical Specialist Centre, Kuching due to heart complications.
On Sept 28, Masing was tested positive for Covid-19 and was then hospitalised at Sarawak General Hospital (SGH).
