KUCHING: Several members of the public here have voiced mixed feelings about the suggestion to establish Kuching as the nation’s second capital.
On Wednesday (Oct 20), Sarawak Perikatan Nasional chairman Senator Jaziri Alkaf Abdillah Suffian suggested that Kuching be made Malaysia’s second capital, given that Borneo would feature prominently in the Asean region, especially when Indonesia moves its capital to Borneo in a few years’ time.
“This development will strengthen bilateral relations between Malaysia and Indonesia, and it is also projected to bring prosperity to the Kalimantan region, with economic spillovers experienced by Sarawak and Sabah,” he said when debating the 12th Malaysia Plan at the Dewan Negara.
At the same time, he noted that the new Indonesian capital’s close proximity to Sarawak and Sabah would serve as a catalyst for greater inter-regional growth.
Here’s what some folk here have to say about Jaziri’s proposal.
Asyraf Jaafar, 24
Lawyer
It’s a good one, but I believe that the current development in Sarawak is still insufficient. We need more infrastructures, especially in several parts of the state, particularly rural areas. This requires more attention so that people can embark on new economic development.
Dania Errisya Ismaili, 21
Student
Why not? I feel that it’s fair to make Kuching the country’s second capital, especially since Sarawak has made significant contributions to the country. Through this too, I believe Sarawak can continue to develop.
Norsafrena Jifree, 24
Executive
For me, making Kuching the second capital will not be an issue for Sarawakians, but to be honest, we are still far behind in terms of development. Before moving on to this notion, the government should concentrate more on strengthening and improving the infrastructure in Sarawak and Sabah – good and proper roads, water and power supply, and telecommunications.
Noor Zana, 43
Businesswoman
I believe that by declaring Kuching as the second capital, the path to advanced development for East Malaysia will be better, and we can expect more opportunities and developments in the future.
Sallehuddin Fikri, 24
Grab driver
Kuching, in my opinion, is not ready to become the nation’s second capital. Our entire population is still modest, and we need to improve many things, like public transportation, telecommunications coverage, and technological advancements, which are more important to the public. Before moving on to the next step, it is critical that we address basic issues in our state first.
Abdul Azim Abu Bakar, 30
Designer
We wouldn’t mind embarking on a new journey as long as it’s meticulously planned. The planning must be solid, with a contingency plan in place to prevent any unfavourable events from occurring. Based on this recommendation, I believe the government recognises the opportunity to make Kuching the second capital of the country.
