KUCHING: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has highlighted the importance of unity, especially in light of the demands made by Sarawak and Sabah under the Malaysian Agreement 1963 (MA63).
He stated that despite the demands from Sarawak and Sabah, particularly under MA63, it should not hinder cooperation and unity between the two Borneo states and Peninsular Malaysia for the benefit of the nation.
“The establishment of the Unity Government is proof that differences are not an obstacle towards unity,” he said.
He said this in his speech during the 2023 National-level Malaysia Day celebration held at the Stadium Perpaduan here in Petra Jaya tonight (Sept 16).
Abang Johari also pointed out the importance of prioritising Sarawak and Sabah development by the Federal Government as neighbouring countries continue to develop their respective regions.
“This is to ensure that the regions in Borneo are able to compete with the development of neighbouring countries in the region.
“Equally important is the need for enhanced border security in addition to initiatives to upgrade cross-border facilities, especially the customs, immigration and quarantine (CIQ) complexes,” he said.
Furthermore, he stressed that the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government is committed to supporting the Unity Government to provide lasting stability, enabling the federal government to focus on building a sustainable and civilised Malaysia.
“Only a strong Federal Government, within a politically stable environment, can effectively address the needs of the entire country, particularly those of Sarawak and Sabah.
“We will give you our (GPS government) full support to maintain a stable federal government until the next election,” he said.
Abang Johari also waxed lyrical on the positive response to the ‘Kembara Kenali Borneo’ convoy, led by Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah and Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah.
He described it as a testament to the unifying role played by the institution of the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong among the diverse populace of Sabah and Sarawak, and Malaysia.
“Let’s not forget that the current stability under the administration of the Unity Government is the result of the wisdom of His Majesty in resolving the country’s previous political crisis.
“Therefore, let’s not squander His Majesty’s hopes but rather strive to foster unity among our people, with the aim of building a more cohesive and prosperous Malaysia.
“I sincerely hope and pray that this stability remains until the next General Election,” he said.
Among those present were acting Head of State Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar and his wife Puan Sri Datuk Fatimah Mohd Iskandar; Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim; Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof and Datuk Patinggi Ahmad Zahid Hamidi; and Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor.
