MIRI: Sarawakian voters are told to avoid repeating the ‘mistake’ of electing opposition parties into office such as in the previous general elections.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said Pakatan Harapan’s (PH’s) 22-month reign should serve as a lesson for the people to avoid the opposition in view of the termination of various federal projects in the state.
“Sarawak should be governed by true Sarawakians who are willing to work with the federal government to improve the well-being of the people.
“Don’t let history repeat itself; remember what happened. Let us Sarawakians take care of Sarawak so we can build the house of Sarawak well and work with the federal government to provide facilities to the people,” he said, hinting that the opposition parties may not work well with Putrajaya.
He said this when speaking at the groundbreaking of Phase 3 Vista Perdana Permai Jaya People’s Housing Project, here on Wednesday (Nov 24).
Abang Johari said the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) coalition has proven to be able to work closely with the federal government despite being a separate entity from the ruling coalition.
“Even though GPS is no longer part of Barisan Nasional (BN), the spirit of loyal friendship (between the two coalitions) is still there for the sake of the welfare of the people,” he enthused.
On to the housing project developed by Syarikat Perumahan Negara Berhad (SPNB) jointly with Naim Group of Companies (Naim), he said the project came into fruition as a result of cooperation between the state and federal governments in providing affordable housing for the B40 and M40 groups.
“This is the third phase of the project. The first and second phases have already been completed (in 2010 and 2018). This means that SPNB is our partner. This initiative will continue not only in Miri, but throughout the state including in Kuching to provide affordable housing for the people,” added the chief minister.
He added that the state government has also implemented various initiatives to ease the process of purchasing a home for the lower income groups.
“This includes the establishment of Mutiara Mortgage Mutiara Mortgage and Credit Sdn Bhd to pay up to RM10,000 in deposit for the purchase of new homes under the policy.
“Our Village Expansion Scheme (SPK) and Resettlement Scheme (SPS) also provide amenities such as paved roads, concrete ditches and walled lots as general improvements of basic infrastructures for the convenience and comfort of its residents without any premiums and purchasers will only have to pay for the cost of the house.
“I am not afraid to provide for this deposit because Sarawak’s income has increased. When we have sustenance, we manage our economy well and our finances are good, we give it back to the people,” said Abang Johari.
