SIBU – There is no room for divisive politics in Sarawak, reiterates Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg.
According to him, stability remains the core foundation for the state as it embarks on strengthening the foundation for a new economy.
“We must have the politics of unity. The leaders must work together.
“There must be no personal agenda. Our agenda is Sarawak agenda, and Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) will stick to this Sarawak agenda,” he said in his speech for the Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP)’s Chinese New Year 2024 celebration and the party’s 65th-anniversary dinner here.
The event was jointly hosted by five SUPP branches in Sibu – Dudong, Pelawan, Nangka, Bukit Assek and Bawang Assan.
In addition, Abang Johari said he had asked state Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister Datuk Seri Roland Sagah and his deputy, Datuk Annuar Rapaee, to look after matters of education in the state and come out with practical policies on education.
“We say Sarawakian children must at least be conversant in two languages – Bahasa Malaysia (which is) mandatory, and also English.
“Now, because many children study in Chinese independent schools, they can also speak and understand Mandarin. Meaning, we have three languages – that is the future of Sarawakians.”
Abang Johari also spoke about free tertiary education for Sarawakian children.
“With 5,000 students entering Sarawak-owned universities, we have calculated, and I know we have the money to provide free education to Sarawakian students – we are going to start (this in) 2026.
“This will go a long way towards benefitting our students, especially those from poor households who are unable to go to university,” he said, adding that this was not an “election promise”.
“We, leaders of GPS, have calculated – this is our income, and we must give back to the people, especially the poor students who are unable to go to university.
“Irrespective of racial background, the children must be given the opportunity to study at university level.”
Deputy Premier Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian, also SUPP president, and his wife Datin Enn Ong were among those present at yesterday’s event. – February 18, 2024