KUALA LUMPUR: Sarawak Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife Toh Puan Fauziah Sanusi graced the Statesman Lecture and Book Talk at Wisma DBP on today (Aug 20).
In a statement Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) said it has organised the Statesman Lecture annually since 2017, featuring prominent figures who have held or are currently holding leadership positions.
“And this year, DBP invited Tun Pehin Sri Wan Junaidi, the Governor of Sarawak, to be the speaker at the 2024 Statesman Lecture,” it said.
According to DBP, the programme is organised to raise awareness about current issues related to the national language, highlight the role of statesmen in strengthening the national language, and promote a new book published by DBP, which serves as an authoritative reading and reference material for students and lecturers in higher education institutions.
The book DBP is promoting this year is the third edition of ‘The Evolution of Malaysia’s Parliament and Speakers’, authored by Wan Junaidi. It was published by DBP earlier this year.
One of the panellists of the Book Talk, Datuk Dr Jeniri Amir, said during his segment that not many people can be skilled and respected politicians who reached the peak of power the way Wan Junaidi has in the country’s political history.
“Not many politicians engage in book writing, and Wan Junaidi is not only an author but also a prolific writer who has produced 10 books, including the one we are discussing.
“His success and excellence in politics are undeniable, and despite his busy political career, he remains active and prolific in writing, as if these two worlds are inseparable in his life,” Jeniri added.
Jeniri also said that the book suits all politicians and students, especially those studying history and political science.
“The book not only introduces the fundamentals of the duties and responsibilities of a Member of Parliament, but it also showcases the author’s wisdom and sincere, insightful perspectives where readers can get valuable insights from the author’s reflections.
“His flow of ideas is smooth, and his analysis is not only structured but also sharp and straightforward, stemming from a genuine desire to see parliament fulfil its role in line with its found objectives and spirit,” he said.
Jeniri added that Wan Junaidi is a pragmatic political leader and writer who consistently places the nation’s interests above personal and party interests and strives to articulate his thoughts clearly and sincerely based on factual and authentic sources.
“His legacy of valuable ideas will undoubtedly serve as a lasting testament to his character, and his writings are honest, assertive, direct, and courageous, reflecting his leadership qualities,” Jeniri said.
Wan Junaidi wrote the book to help readers understand the history of parliament and the differences and similarities between the parliamentary functions and practises in Malaysia and England.
