KUCHING: Publicity and Information Chief of the Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP), Adam Yii has suggested that Pakatan Harapan (PH) politicians report immediately to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) if they come across any evidence of impropriety in Sarawak projects funded by the federal government.
He said he was sad that Democratic Action Party Sarawak chairman and Deputy Minister of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs, Chong Chieng Jen, had repeatedly said that projects in Sarawak funded by the federal government needed to be re-examined, thus implying some impropriety. “The immediate impact of this has been the cutting off of development funds for schools, roads, hospitals and other facilities essential to the well-being of Sarawakians,” said Yii.
He added that statements by PH politicians such as “we have to check how the money was spent” or “will be spent” were merely excuses to deny Sarawakians their right to benefit from development.”
Yii said Minister of International Trade and Industry, Darell Leiking, recently said although Sabah and Sarawak received the largest portion of the RM260 billion in the 11th Malaysia Plan development expenditure, both states were still backward. Leiking added that investigations would be carried out on how the funds were spent.
Yii pointed out that, firstly, the Minister did not mention how much of the funds was actually spent. “Allocated budget and actual amount spent are two different matters,” he said.
“Secondly, both Sabah and Sarawak are vast territories compared to West Malaysia and therefore, the projects which have been implemented are a “mere drop of water in the ocean” as far as Sabah and Sarawak are concerned. He (Leiking) should not make excuses for the inaction and stoppage of development.”
Yii added that Miri Member of Parliament, Dr. Michael Teo from PKR recently also stated he disagreed with the plans to build a new polyclinic and extend Miri Hospital. Yii pointed out that the two projects, which were carefully planned and approved under the 11th Malaysia Plan, would benefit not only those in Miri but also those from the surrounding regions.
“By disagreeing to the planned expansion of Miri Hospital, saying it needs to be investigated, how long do we have to wait? One month, one year, five years or is it just before the next election?
“Denial of healthcare is equal to denial of the human rights of Sarawakians,” said the Publicity and Information Chief of SUPP. Yii pointed out that Sarawak’s oil and gas industry was contributing RM50 billion every year to Malaya and that this excluded other taxes.
“Excuses and delays created by PH politicians from Sarawak have led to the stoppage of much needed development in Sarawak. “They should have Sarawak’s interests at heart. This is not the time for political stunts by them. Our people should always come first,” he said.
