SIBU: The Sarawak Central Chiang Hsia Huang Clan Association has been urged to prepare itself to head towards a new environmentally-friendly economy.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the financial landscape has changed with banks worldwide now stressing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations.
“Unless your business complies with ESG, then they (banks) may not finance you. If your business is based on energy that emits a lot of carbon, banks may be reluctant to provide funding because the international banking community has agreed to only fund projects relevant to the current issue of climate change.
“In other words, we need to change to a new economy now, and I am confident that the Wong clan (Sarawak Central Chiang Hsia Huang Clan Association) can adapt. This will benefit our economy,” he said in his speech at the 63rd anniversary celebration of the Sarawak Central Chiang Hsia Huang Clan Association at a renowned hotel here last night (Sept 17).
Abang Johari, who noted their long history of involvement in economics and business, said they should collaborate to produce eco-friendly power that does not emit carbon.
“We need to mitigate climate change to reduce floods and excessive heat, allowing people to live happily, and this is what Sarawak’s economy is all about,” he added.
Meanwhile on the association, the Premier stressed that 63 years is not a short period.
“I am certain that the community started 63 years ago as a small entity and has grown over time by working together, supporting one another, and has now become a substantial clan.
“We should take you as a role model. If Sarawak follows the example of the Wong clan, and Sarawakians work together and support each other, it will become a formidable state. Then, we can all integrate,” he said.
To emphasise his point, Abang Johari took a leaf out of the late Pehin Sri Tan Sri Adenan Satem’s quote on Sarawak’s multiracial ethnic groups’ ability to integrate and intermarry: “Pergi kopitiam minum kopi sama, kawan sama, makan sama (dan) cari amoi pun sama.”
