MIRI: January 13 will mark the fifth anniversary Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg is helming the state as the chief minister.
He took office on January 13, 2017 after the passing of the then Chief Minister Tan Sri Pehin Sri Adenan Satem.
On the macro side, it is safe to assume that Sarawakians are happy with his leadership based on the thumping victory achieved by Gabungan Parti Sarawak — the coalition that he leads — in the recent 12th state election.
At the level of individual Sarawakians, it is nice to know or hear what some of them have to say about our top politician. Below are some comments on the ground deemed suitable as part of the colours for the anniversary celebration.
CR KARAMBIR SINGH
(Academician)
In the five years that our Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Jo has helmed Sarawak, he has shown that he understands the needs of the people and has come up with people-centric policies. His support towards a multi-religious and multi-racial Sarawak has ensured the state remains stable and peaceful. His capability together with his team to manage Sarawak during the pandemic over the last two years has proven his ability to lead during challenging times. I am sure his next five years will significantly uplift Sarawakians and define Sarawak for decades to come.
AARON ALAN
(Student)
Congratulations to Abang Johari on his fifth anniversary as our chief minister of Sarawak. May the almighty God continue to bless our him with good health, wisdom and patience to lead our state into becoming a prosperous land. For the next five years, I hope he is able to highlight many young leaders so that we have heirs who would continue to fight for Sarawak. In addition, I hope Abang Johari gives more emphasis towards the rural areas, especially in terms of transportation, telecommunications, electricity and clean water supply.
ANDY JONG
(President of the Northern Sarawak Journalists Association)
The chief minister is aware of the current global changes that are shifting towards the digital world. He ensured that Sarawak was always on track with the introduction of the Digital Economy Policy in line with the mission to achieve the goal of becoming a high-income and developed state by 2030. Under the effort to further diversify the state’s revenue through its alternative financing strategy, Sarawak, under the leadership of Abang Jo, continues to progress. The state has now shifted from a traditional economy to a smart technology-based digital economy encompassing the agriculture, tourism, smart cities, health, e-commerce, digital government, transportation and social sectors. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Abang Johari has set up a wise approach to deal with COVID-19 situations as well as create the Bantuan Khas Sarawakku Sayang (BKKS) series to help the people who are affected. Sarawak also launched the post-COVID-19 2030 Development Strategy (PCDS 2030) with the target of doubling the economic growth. Abang Johari has worked tirelessly since he assumed office and is most receptive to fresh ideas, and the interests of the people will continue to be his priority and concern.
CR TAN LEK JIN
(Entreprenuer)
Congratulations to our Gabungan Parti Sarawak leader, Abang Johari for helming the state as the chief minister for five years. I hope Sarawak will continue to be successful under his great leadership. No doubt, Abang Johari has given a positive impact towards the prosperity of the state. Various approaches have been introduced to benefit the rakyat to cushion the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
