PREMIER Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has tabled a Motion of Appreciation to honour the late Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud, the former Governor of Sarawak.
The motion was tabled on the third day of the first meeting of the third session of the 19th term of the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) today.
Abang Johari extended condolences to Taib’s family.
“Allow me to present the Motion of Appreciation to the former Governor of Sarawak, the late Tun Pehin Sri Haji Abdul Taib bin Mahmud,” said Abang Johari as he commenced the tribute.
The Premier recounted Taib’s contributions and legacy, noting his crucial role in shaping Sarawak’s development trajectory.
He pointed out Taib’s visionary leadership and profound impact on various sectors, including unity among Sarawak’s diverse communities, rural and agricultural development, industrialisation, human capital development, infrastructure and the establishment of implementing agencies.
“Taib was a visionary leader. Through the politics of development philosophy emphasised by him, harmony and unity among races were the pillars of Sarawak’s development. Without harmony and racial unity, the goal of development would not be achieved.”
He also praised Taib’s efforts in bridging the development gap between urban and rural areas and promoting industrial growth through initiatives such as the Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE).
“The late Taib was committed to providing opportunities for the people of Sarawak to obtain higher education.” he said when reflecting on Taib’s commitment to education, citing the establishment of universities like Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) and Curtin University Malaysia as testament to Taib’s dedication to nurturing human capital.
Abang Johari recalled that Taib, then Sarawak Governor, helped him after he assumed the role as the chief minister in 2017.
“When I assumed the responsibility as chief minister after the passing of the late Pehin Sri Adenan Satem, he (Taib) stood as a knowledgeable advisor, a wise mentor, and most importantly, a loyal friend.
“As a leader, words cannot express how grateful I am for the support and advice given by the late Taib.”
Abang Johari also reiterated the profound impact of Taib’s contributions and their enduring significance in Sarawak’s history.
He urged all members of the assembly to join in honouring the late governor’s memory and legacy.
“Let us all pray together that Taib’s soul will be blessed and placed among the believers,” he said.
