Since being appointed as Sarawak’s Premier in 2017, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, popularly known as Abang Jo, has garnered attention not only from Malaysians but also from beyond the shores of Sarawak. This is because he has effectively managed Sarawak by introducing new economies and implementing state-wide physical developments to boost the state’s economy and improve the standard of living for its people.
Abang Jo’s vision and aspiration are centred around transforming Sarawak into a high-income state by 2030, as outlined in the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030) launched on July 22, 2021. With his strong financial background and dedication to fulfilling his responsibilities, Abang Jo is on the right track to achieve this goal.
On July 6, 2023, World Bank lead economist Apurva Sangi specifically acknowledged Sarawak as a high-income state, with a gross national income (GNI) per capita surpassing US$13,205 (RM61,441). This recognition places Abang Jo ahead of his peers nationally, even being acknowledged by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Furthermore, on September 16, 2023, Anwar invited the Premier to deliver a 30-minute lecture on his new economic policies and achievements to all federal ministers at his office in WISMA Bapa Malaysia. This historic moment marked the first-ever federal cabinet meeting held in Sarawak, solidifying Abang Jo’s position as a noteworthy leader.
Abang Jo’s leadership qualities, including his innovation and dynamism, have attracted attention not only from leaders in the ASEAN region but also from world leaders who have invited him to speak on green economy topics in Europe, Singapore, Japan, and Indonesia. It is not an overstatement to say that Abang Jo is a leader who consistently achieves multiple economic goals for Sarawak.
Among the numerous initiatives introduced by Abang Jo in recent years are the digital economy, the establishment of the Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR), the Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office in Singapore (STATOS), the utilization of hydrogen and algae for sustainable aviation fuel, the autonomous rapid transit (ART) system in its final trial stage, the creation of a sovereign wealth fund and ombudsman policy, carbon storage utilisation and research, a boutique airline, and the most recent launch in September, the Sarawak Integrated Sour Gas Evacuation System in Bintulu.
Abang Jo is also known for speaking his mind on issues related to the Malaysian Agreement 1963 (MA63), clarifying that the issue is only partially resolved.
He has communicated his stance on this matter numerous times to the Prime Minister, starting from the tenure of Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak to the current 10th Prime Minister, who emphasised compliance with the agreement. Abang Jo explains that his pursuit of the restoration of rights enshrined in the agreement is not driven by parochialism.
Deputy Prime Minister Datu Seri Fadillah Yusof now leads the Sarawak negotiation team, which has successfully restored several rights. Sarawakians are hopeful that the MA63 issues will be resolved promptly to fully restore autonomy on various policies.
Sarawakians consider themselves fortunate to have Abang Jo as their leader, as he prioritises their interests in his administration. Once a stable economy is established, Abang Jo’s next agenda is to distribute the state’s wealth among the people, aiming to increase household income and eradicate poverty, particularly among rural communities.
As an impartial state leader, Abang Jo not only focuses on economic achievements but also embraces and respects different religious faiths, evident in the establishment of UNIFOR and allowing Sarawakians to use the word “Allah” in their prayers. Given Sarawak’s diverse population comprising more than 26 ethnic groups, Abang Jo’s inclusive approach is commendable.
Abang Jo is also considering increasing the salary of the Sarawak civil service to ensure better income for its employees. His loyalty to the King is unquestionable, as he promptly responded to His Majesty’s request to help form a new government under Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, aiming to contribute to a stable Malaysian nation.
Therefore, it is crucial for all Sarawakians to continue providing their fullest cooperation and support to Abang Jo, his dynamic cabinet members, and their goals for Sarawak’s progress.
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DISCLAIMER:
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the New Sarawak Tribune.
