My comments on proposed amendment to use the term ‘Borneo States’ to refer to Sarawak and Sabah

This morning I had told our media friends that it is about time for the proposed amendment to use the term ‘Borneo States’ to refer to Sarawak and Sabah to be decided because this is a long overdue issue. They seek my comments on the proposed amendments to Article 1(2) of the Federal Constitution under the Federal Constitution (Amendments) Bill 2021 which is expected to be approved. This had shown us that our country is finally putting this matter into the right perspective. 

In fact, I have also mentioned that this is what was agreed in the negotiations when both Sarawak and Sabah had agreed to form Malaysia which led to the signing of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).

Under the country’s Federal Constitution, it was initially stated that the states of the Federation shall comprised of the states of Malaya namely Johor, Kedah, Kelantan, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Penang, Perak, Perlis, Selangor and Terengganu; the Borneo States namely Sabah and Sarawak; and the State of Singapore, which had separated from us on 9 August 1965. 

So it is specifically stated there that we are different but over the years, somehow they included us with the other states which made it look like we are on the same category as the other states in Malaysia. We had never signed anything with the other states. We only signed with the representative representing one Peninsular Malaysia when we formed Malaysia. I had reiterated that with the proposed amendment to the constitution, this will finally put Sarawak and Sabah back to the right perspective. It is a long overdue decision and I hope it doesn’t go back to that point again. 

This matter was highlighted by our media friemds after our Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department, YB Datuk Hajah Hanifah Taib on December 1 had mentioned in the Dewan Rakyat that Sarawak and Sabah will no longer be known as East Malaysia but as the Borneo States once the proposed amendments to Article 1(2) of the Federal Constitution under the Federal Constitution (Amendments) Bill 2021 is approved. Putrajaya was said to have no plans to rebrand Sabah and Sarawak as “mainland Malaysia” as the current terms used to address the two Borneo states was suffice.

Welcoming passengers from inaugural direct flight from Penang to Kuching

It was a great occasion when we welcomed the arrival of passengers from the inaugural Malaysia Airlines (MAS) direct flight from Penang to Kuching this morning. Flight MH2721 arrived at our Kuching International Airport (KIA) at about 10:30 am. I was there at the airport's arrival hall to greet the passengers and presented them with garlands made of Sarawak beads. 

During the press conference, I had informed our media friends that it is so good to see that Sarawak and Penang are now connected via Malaysia Airlines. Both the connectivity and accessibility will therefore generate greater mobility that will drive the economic growth of both states and I am very sure that people of both islands can now visit both UNESCO sites more easily. The Penang-Kuching flight will operate with a frequency of two flights weekly, on Thursdays and Saturdays on Malaysia Airlines Boeing 738 planes.

As the Covid-19 pandemic has made all countries focus inwards, Abdul Karim asserts that Sarawak is no exception. Recently, Kuching has just been recognised as UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network (UCCN) in the field of gastronomy and with a direct link to the UNESCO World Heritage City of Georgetown, visitors from both states can now also enjoy the best offerings of both cities blessed with the abundance of culture, adventure, nature food and festivals from East to West

Air connectivity has always been a challenge for Penangites to visit Sarawak, hence getting direct flights for both island states is very much welcome. Fully vaccinated domestic travellers from all states are not required to undergo quarantine upon arrival to Sarawak and no PCR or RTK Covid-19 tests are needed prior to departure. The only requirement needed is for them to apply for entry via the EnterSarawak app for non Sarawakians. They also need to submit the completed e-Health declaration form. 

On another note, the homegrown brand ‘Sia Sitok Sarawak’ holiday promotions undertaken by Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) and Sarawak Tourism Federation (STF) received overwhelming response from all over in which it had helped the local tourism industry during recent challenging times. The positive response had also shown us that there is certainly a lot of potential for domestic tourism. The easing of travelling into Sarawak had done us a big favour and certainly we look forward to seeing more new direct routes and increasing the frequency of direct flights from hubs such as Penang, KL, Johore and Kota Kinabalu in Sabah. Similarly, the health and safety of our visitors had always been the main priority in which stringent standard operating procedures (SOPs) were consistently enforced so that travellers will have peace of mind while travelling to Sarawak. 

Delightful to meet His Excellency Pascal H. Gregiore, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to Malaysia

I was truly delighted to meet His Excellency Pascal H. Gregiore, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to Malaysia who dropped by at my office at Baitul Makmur II, Petra Jaya this morning. We had a brief but good discussion on many things especially in tourism matters that are of mutual interest. 

In fact, I had invited His Excellency to stay longer in Sarawak so that there will be ample time for him to visit places of interest in Kuching. His Excellence is on a working visit to Sarawak which had recently been included in United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) list of Creative Cities Network (UCCN) for gastronomy while Belgium itself was recently elected into UNESCO's World Heritage Committee. We hope His Excellency will have a fruitful and enjoyable visit to Sarawak which offers the best in culture, gastronomy, adventure and nature to visitors from all over the world.  

Moving forward with launching of GPS election machinery

Last night's official launching of our Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) election machinery at the Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) headquarters in Jalan Bako, Kuching was done in moderation in compliance with the standard operating procedure (SOP) set by Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) and Ministry of Health (MoH). Apart from the attendance by GPS Chairman, Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Abang Openg, the event was also attended by representatives from respective component parties.

After the ceremony, Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari told our media friends that GPS machinery has been prepared for the 12th State Elections (PRN12) for a long time and last night's ceremony is only for us to remind our party’s machinery that we have to gear up because the elections will take place on December 18. As we are all aware, the term of the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) expired on June 2021 and of course our machinery has been well prepared way earlier.

He also mentioned on the quarrel among the opposition parties on the allocation of seats for the coming elections which only signifies an unstable government if they are to be elected by the local folks. The Chief Minister said the people can see for themselves that the quarrel among the opposition parties started even before the Election Commission (EC) announce the election date. If this happens, it means the (future) government will not be stable...we do not know the details of their quarrel but from the start, there's thought that the Opposition will face some problems including those local-based parties. Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari went on to urge Sarawakians to compare the track record of the opposition figures with that of GPS leaders throughout their service to the people up until now.

Counting on our local community leaders to encourage local folks turning up for Polling Day on December 18

Recently I have called on our community leaders to play their active role in encouraging local folks to turn up for the polling day. Being the respected public figures in their respective villages and residential areas, our Ketua Kampungs, Ketua Kaum and Pemanca possess the ability to persuade and convince local folks to perform their rights in casting votes in the coming 12th Sarawak State Elections (PRN12).

I have mentioned these during my recent engagement with over 90 community leaders who consist of our Ketua Kampungs, Ketua Kaum and Pemanca from various areas in Asajaya, Samarahan. Also present during the function was our District Officer for Asajaya, Encik Rais Bin Ahmad and Samarahan's Temenggong Haji Chek Bin Bujang. It is heartening for us to see that our community leaders are fully aware of their responsibilities towards their kampung folks especially in reminding them to give the fresh mandate to the state government with the aim to move forward with Sarawak's development agenda.

Nevertheless, I have also reminded our local folks to continue be wary on the dangers of Covid19 and therefore it is vital for all of us to always follow the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) when polling day is concerned. This is to avoid the virus from spreading and to expedite the election process. I have also mentioned that democracy is alive in our state and country whereby the number of candidates for the coming state elections including those from other opposing parties are expected to be large. With no physical campaigning allowed for this PRN12, I also urged our local folks to be wary and vigilant in receiving news or information via the social media which can be untrue, malicious and defamatory in nature.

Our wait for date on Sarawak's 12th State Elections is finally over

We welcome and support the official announcement made by Election Commission (EC) on the forthcoming 12th Sarawak Elections (PRN12) which is on 18 December with the nomination day set on 6 December. The PRN12 must be held as soon as possible in order for Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) to get a fresh mandate from the people. This is also in line with our Right Honourable Chief Minister's views on the fresh mandate from our folks which is vital for GPS to have a strong basis to continue its pursue on Sarawak’s rights. We stand firm with Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg's statement on GPS which is not done in its struggle to regain the state’s rights under Article 112 of the Federal Constitution. Our Chief Minister had also mentioned that without the people’s mandate, what do GPS fight for? Thus, GPS and its component parties are in need a strong mandate from the people in this election so we can continue to pursue matters of mutual concern. 

My comments on results of Malacca state elections which was a welcome surprise

The outcome of the recent Melaka state election had sent a clear message that the people want political stability in the country and thr outcome also showed that people were against the culture of political “frogging”. This is especially for voters, because they vote for us as individuals who represent the party. Of course the people get angry because they voted for candidates from a particular party and then they ran away, That’s why you see those frogs losing in Melaka.

It is a good development because the people have shown that they want political stability. We can’t run from that, and I believe the people of Melaka are fed up with political leaders who jump here and there, and have been fighting with each other and disrupting the government’s work.

Those who contest and win on a party ticket should not jump ship later on as this would mean turning their backs on those who had lent them their support during the election. I have never seen Barisan Nasional (BN) win with so much style in Melaka. Even though UMNO is facing internal problems due to its leadership, you can see that the people are still willing to vote for the party. This shows that the people have trust in the new leaders who were brought in as candidates.

The Melaka state election was triggered by the move by four former assemblymen who withdrew their support for the leadership of Sulaiman Md Ali, who was sworn in as chief minister again after BN’s victory on Saturday. The recent election saw Barisan Nasional (BN) winning 21 of the 28 seats it contested, while Pakatan Harapan (PH) won five seats and Perikatan Nasional (PN) only two.

Getting local folks to appreciate domestic tourism initiatives

We have given our full support to our media friends who are doing their part in promoting the various places of interest in our own back yard so that the local folks can appreciate more of their domestic tourism sector. Such initiatives are working because more of our fellow Sarawakians have started appreciating local tourism products in the face of Covid-19 pandemic. I have mentioned this to our media friends who had been organising road tours and highlighting places of interest found in the state. The latest tour is being organised by Sin Chew Daily News under its "Hidden Gems In Borneo" tour which started on 19 November.

Due to the pandemic, it is difficult for us to woo foreign visitors coming to Sarawak and therefore, our Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MTAC) are trying to get locals themselves to visit the various tourist attraction sites. We hope this will work for locals who cannot travel outside the country or they have to undergo some sort of restrictions in doing so. For such reasons, we can see that our local tourism products have started to be appreciated by locals visiting other parts of Sarawak. That is also tourism and it is helping the local industry to recover from the impacts of recent pandemic. 

With the Covid19 situation slowly improving, our local folks can visit places of interest within Sarawak and to spend their money at the same time. This itself will help our tourism industry because every little help counts to those who are earning a living from tourism dollar.

Given the chance, it is my wish to defend Asajaya rather than switch to another seat

It was an interesting question on whether I would be one of the probable candidates for the N8 Satok constituency in the coming 12th Sarawak State Elections (PRN12) but if given the chance, it is my wish to defend Asajaya rather than switch to another seat. 

I have mentioned this to our media friends after launching the "Hidden Gems in Borneo" road tour organised by Sin Chew Daily News in Kuching. I told them (media) that after having started my career in politics as an elected representative in Asajaya in 2001...if it is possible, I want to end my career as a politician in the same place (Asajaya). 

I think there is no need to switch (to other constituencies) and as it is, I think I will stay put (in Asajaya) if I am given the chance to defend my seat in the coming state elections. Our media friends were looking forward to my response on rumours that I would be fielded in the Satok seat, replacing incumbent Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg who is expected to contest in Gedong, Simunjan this time round. This came following our Chief Minister's revelation on 17 November that he will consider contesting in the Gedong seat after the incumbent, Datuk Mohd Naroden Majais has announced his intention to retire.

Our Chief Minister had proven his capability to lead, to develop Sarawak by leaps and bounds

Our local folks residing in Gedong, Simunjan and all those living in its vicinities will experience the rapid development if it is represented by Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg in the coming 12th State Elections (PRN12). 

I have mentioned this to our media friends because Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari, who is Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) chairman had proven his capability to develop Satok in Kuching by leaps and bounds. As a chief minister, he has that "Midas touch". Everywhere he goes, whatever he wishes to pursue, it will work out. Therefore, if he is contesting in Gedong, the constituency will develop well. The same applies to any other constituency. In addition, even the surrounding areas of the constituency he helms will benefit from the spin-off.

However, I have reminded our folks that as a chief minister, Abang Johari belongs to everybody and not just to those in Gedong or in his Satok constituency . Whether he is going to contest in an urban area or a rural area, I believe he will still look after every other place. In the 2016 State Election, Abang Johari defended the Satok seat for the eighth consecutive term and winning every contest without any problem because the locals supported his people-centric approach in leadership. 

Talking about retaining my candidacy at N15 Asajaya in 12th Sarawak State Elections

I have informed our Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) chairman, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg that I have represented the Asajaya constituency for the past 20 years and I had been there for a long time. Although I don’t really feel like it has been 20 years, I have enjoyed my ‘stay’ there.

If I were given the opportunity to represent Asajaya again, I will be very happy. If not, I will support the candidate who GPS nominates to contest for that constituency. I will give the full support if  (GPS) decides to field a new candidate in his Asajaya seat in the upcoming Sarawak's 12th state election (PRN12).

It was the norm for Parti Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) to field between 20 and 30 per cent new faces as candidates in parliamentary and state elections. Thus, I hope those fellow incumbents who are not picked to defend their seats this time around would accept the decisions made by the party’s top leadership. I will leave it to GPS chairman Abang Johari to announce the finalised candidates, but I believe the incumbents will already know whether they are contesting or not.

If the party has not asked for your photos to print out posters, you know it’s not forthcoming, or the party leaders have already politely informed those involved. On rumours that Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) could field its candidate in Asajaya, I was informed there are in fact three PKR members were already moving on the ground while canvassing for support. This is interesting because I did not know that contesting in Asajaya is important for them (PKR).

When asked on the seats in Mambong, Pakan and Bekenu which were won by Barisan Nasional- direct candidates back in the 2016 state polls, I have mentioned that talks between GPS component parties have always been cordial and in the spirit of understanding. By being on the ground, we will know who are the most winnable candidate is for a particular constituency. It has always been not a problem for the component parties to discuss the matter and not lead to a big squabble later. The incumbents for Mambong, Pakan and Bekenu are Datuk Dr Jerip Susil, Tan Sri William Mawan and Datuk Rosey Yunus, respectively – are all from PBB.

Commenting on PKR's chances in the upcoming 12th Sarawak State Elections

I have commented to our media friends on Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) Sarawak which may not be able to win any seats in the upcoming 12th Sarawak state election (PRN12) and the prospects of securing a seat was in fact, very bleak. I am not giving PKR any chance in this upcoming state elections. Based on my own observation, I think they will win zero seats. I may sound arrogant but looking at the present leadership of PKR Sarawak, I think they will not even secure a single seat.

I was asked to comment on the recent statement by PKR Sarawak secretary Joshua Jabeng who had reportedly said the party would field 47 candidates for the PRN12 after negotiations with Pakatan Harapan (PH) partners namely Democratic Action Party (DAP) and Parti Amanah Negara.

PKR Sarawak suffered a leadership crisis after their then chairman and Selangau MP, Baru Bian, together with Puncak Borneo MP Willie Mongin and Saratok MP Ali Biju left the party, following a political crisis dubbed as ‘Sheraton Move’ that toppled the PH federal government.

On whether Parti Sarawak Bersatu (PSB) would pose a threat to GPS in the state election, I have commented that in Malaysia we had always practises parliamentary democracy and anyone could contest in the election. Thus, we respect PKR, PSB and all but we have been through many elections. There were always political parties that announced their intention to contest in about 40 or even all of the 82 seats but in the end, they could only win one or two seats.

PSB has two incumbent representatives who left PKR after the ‘Sheraton Move’, namely YB Baru Bian (Ba Kelalan) and YB See Chee How (Batu Lintang). I personally sees PSB as a splinter group of Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP), and a ‘sanctuary’ for dissenters from other political parties, including PBB, PKR and Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS). Like the old saying, "birds of same feather flock together". When they faced problems with their own party, they flock together (by joining PSB, but with different ideologies. One of the PSB members had persistently championed for native customary rights (NCR) land but now seemed to be involved with a party that is associating itself with big tycoons who have logging problems. As a result, I am optimistic that GPS incumbents would be able to secure a landslide victory in the state election, with a two-third or even a four-fifth majority in the State Legislative Assembly (DUN).

Welcoming the increase number of domestic tourists arrival in Sarawak

Even when we are still coping with the impacts of Covid19, Sarawak had recorded a total of 20,926 tourist arrivals in October this year and it is representing an increase of 14% over the number registered in the same month in 2020. The official tourism receipt for October this year is amounting to RM47.48 million and it is an increase of 11% over the RM42.5 million which was reported in October 2020.

When the lockdowns were imposed, there was almost zero tourist coming in. So now that we have opened our doors since October this year, we can see the number of visitors is slowing increasing. There was a total of 18,338 tourists arrivals in October last year, but from the number, the number of foreign tourist arrivals recorded a drop of 45% to 1,616 for the October period this year, versus 2,967 recorded in same month last year. I can understand the drop because there were many travel restrictions and no foreigner would want to be quarantined in a hotel room for the two weeks when travelling to state. Domestic tourists' arrivals had recorded 19,310 people in last month alone versus 15,371 registered in the same month last year. The arrivals also reflect a growth of 21% and this is a good improvement after our country had entered Phase 3 of the National Recovery Plan (NRP). We need to work together in getting things ready for the incoming tourists to come especially with proposed opening of Malaysia to foreign tourists starting 1 January next year. Hopefully they will be coming to Sarawak and we need to work with relevant authorities including Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) and Ministry of Health (MoH) so that the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) are well in place.

Great way to promote Sarawak via "Sarawak 360 Experience: Stories From The Heart"

I gave the two thumbs up to the newly-launched ‘Sarawak 360 Experience: Stories from the Heart’ project which aims to promote the unique Sarawak stories on global stage where online audiences through 360 interactive video technology.

The interactive video series with its 10 episodes will showcase popular tourism attractions and these include ‘Semenggoh Orangutan’, ‘Semadang kayaking’, ‘Kuching Cycling’, ‘Bako National Park’, ‘Tanoti Handicraft’, ‘Batang Ai Longhouse’, ‘Sibu and Central Region’, ‘Miri Diving’, ‘Mulu and the Pinnacles’, as well as ‘Bario Homestay’.

In a way such initiatives will offer a new way for Netizens from all over the world can interact and experience stories via "first-person narrative" rather than merely watching, listening, or reading the story from a third person point of views.

Thus, we hope the immersive videos can put viewers at the centre of the everything and allowing them to look things in a 360 degree angle for that kind of surreal experience. They can even experience the 360 degree videos on smart phones, tablets, laptops or desktop computers.

Kudos to Association of Sarawak Inbound Agencies (ASIA), Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) and Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Sarawak (MTAC) for undertaking the project despite facing challenges due to Covid-19 pandemic. Well done to the team in the local production house, Zass Puravida which is expected to kick off season 2 in February 2022 and featuring Central and Northern Sarawak.

Talking about new faces as candidates in the forthcoming 12th Sarawak State Election #PRN12

I have informed our media friends that some of the incumbent State Legislative Assembly (DUN) members from Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) will not be fielded and the decision lies with the chairman of the GPS coalition, Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Abang Haji Openg. We may be fielding at least 20 new faces, including youths, in the forthcoming 12th Sarawak state election (PRN12). I’m in the party, so more or less I am aware there may be changes for some of the state seats, where new candidates, including those from the youth group, will be chosen to contest. 

As for percentage, I think no less than 20 of the candidates for the upcoming election will be new, including those aged 30. the selection process was not made in haste but through screening of a group of young individuals who were already experienced and experts in their respective careers or non-governmental organisations. This is because we want candidates who place the interest of the people at heart and possess the ability to look after a constituency. Not those without experience. As for the incumbent DUN members who will be dropped for the next state election, I believed they will adhere to the party’s decision. This is our way in Sarawak. 

Some of the incumbents who were advised not to contest will adhere to the party’s decision. At other parts of the country, some people might already decide to switch to another party and this is not the case in Sarawak. However, I have explained the decision to drop some of the aged incumbent DUN members did not necessarily mean they had not carried out their duties well but was to make way for new candidates. On women candidacy, he said it was undeniable that women played a role in the development of the state and that was the reason women candidates must be fielded in the state election. There were currently four women from GPS representing state constituencies in the state and the number might be increased or remain the same in the next state election.

Expressing optimism in winning PRN12 with two third majority

We in Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) is confident of winning a two-thirds majority of all the seats in the forthcoming 12th Sarawak Election (PRN12) because if you are not confident, you would not go to a war. We had also prepared ourselves for a long time and I know the opponents are also doing the same.

We are not just confident of winning a simple majority but a two-thirds majority. However, it does not reach the level of arrogance. We respect our opponents however small they are, even if they are new parties. Likewise, we also respect Parti Sarawak Bersatu (PSB) that was one of those who have been with us but I don’t think that they are able to deliver the way we are able to deliver.

Ia have also further described PSB as a party that accepts anyone that has jumped from any political parties or a splinter group that is not in the same direction with GPS component parties which consist of PBB, Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS), Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) and Progressive Democratic Party (PDP).

When birds of a feather start flocking together, we will never be able to get a very good party because everyone would have their own ideology on native customary right (NCR) land, environment, dissenting views on coastal road project and competition for the party presidency.

For me, it is very difficult for us to put our hope on those sort of leaders to govern us including those from Peninsula-based parties which may participate in the State polls but our fellow Sarawakians will be mature enough to vote for local based parties.

On the question of Parti Islam Se-Malaysia (PAS) coming here, they have been contesting many times but the majority of them had lost their deposit. Likewise, Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) can also contest here to disunite Sarawakians but I believe Sarawakians are matured voters and they will know what to do.

At the same time, I opined that the number of voters must be high in order to legitimise the government in any election. I would love to see the voter turn-up to be 70 to 80 per cent in the coming election. Likewise, in Asajaya itself has always recorded a voter turn-out of 75 per cent. The Election Commission (EC) has come up with standard operating procedures (SOPs) for a safe polling process & GPS will encourage Sarawakians to turn-up for the voting process. We can allay their fear of being infected with Covid-19 by complying to the strict SOPs and to avoid crowded places.

On another note, Sarawak has its own immigration laws and those who wish to enter our state for the election would have to comply with the necessary SOPs. However, if they feel sick, then don’t come to Sarawak. They are not welcome because ee do not want them to spread a Covid-19 variant from the Peninsula to Sarawakians.

Being optimistic of establishing a travel lane with Singapore to rejuvenate and boost to local tourism industry.

We are optimistic of establishing a travel lane between Singapore and Sarawak which is among important matters the Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture Sarawak (MTAC) is looking into, in order to rejuvenate and boost to the local tourism industry.

The official announcement will be made once we have secured this arrangements and Insyallah, it will be there. I was responding to queries from our media friends who reported that Malaysia and Singapore will reopen their mutual border with a special Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) between Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and Changi Airport from 29 November onwards.

Under the VTL arrangements, fully-vaccinated travellers will be able to travel between Singapore and Malaysia, and be subjected to Covid-19 tests in lieu of serving quarantine or stay at home notices. On 8 November, Malaysia’s Prime Minister ,Dato Sri Ismail Sabri Yaakob and Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong made a joint statement on this matter and said both countries have made significant progress in vaccinating their respective populations and managing the Covid19 pandemic. Following that, both Prime Ministers have agreed that it is timely to progressively resume cross-border travel between both countries, in a safe manner. The border between the two countries was closed since 18 March when Malaysia enforced the Movement Control Order (MCO). 

Looking forward to 2nd Sarawak International Festival of Music and Arts (SIFMA

We are excited with the forthcoming 2nd Sarawak International Festival of Music and Arts (SFMA) which will be held on hybrid mode at Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) Complex on 20 to 21 November. Kudos to the festival organisers who are aiming to revive and highlight the dynamism of music and arts in Sarawak together with those from overseas.

Highlights of SIFMA 2 will include the “Let’s Talk” forum featuring inspirational stories and advice from professionals and enthusiasts within the music and arts community. Another highlight is “Be A Host”, which invites the audience to enjoy the festival’s live virtual showcase with friends and family via a watch party hosted virtually from anywhere in the world.

The two-day event is once again organised by International Music House Kuching (IMH) and sponsored by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Sarawak (MTAC) in which it will feature a two-part live concert.The first part will bring Sarawak to the world, covering a storyline of a musical journey to SIFMA showcasing all major ethnic communities of the Land of the Hornbill.

It will be great for us to see a variety of performers including locals from the Sarawak Chinese Ensemble, led by Kenwy Ho Khong Wee and they will perform the Trapezoidal Yangqin, a Chinese hammered dulcimer that produces a distinctive sound.

There will also be the "Karya Terindah Performing Arts", an arts and cultural dance troupe consisting of dancers from Sarawak will also perform. Also in the line-up will be the Russell and Randell Dance Company which was founded by Sarawak dance personalities with Russell Lim Jian Liang, Randell Lim Xiu Zhen and Cindy Chung Sin Yee forming the dance company’s core team of dance teachers.

Apart from that, we will also be entertained by top violinists from IMH, SONS (Simfoni Orkestra Negeri Sarawak) and other music centres in Kuching The second part of the live concert will bring the rest of the world to Sarawak and will feature top performers of music and dance including the renowned Bolshoi Ballet dancers from Russia, award winning conductor of the Suc Song Moi Ensemble, Quang Vinh Dong, singers from the National University of Singapore (NUS), the Visayan cultural troupe from the Philippines and more.

We are supporting the festival because it is among the steps taken to revive the State’s tourism, arts and culture sector as many programmes have been forced to be put on hold due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Campaigning restriction and Standard Operating Procedures are applicable to all parties

I have responded to the recent claims by Democratic Action Party (DAP) Sarawak chairman, YB Chong Chieng Jen’s on the Opposition having the disadvantage in the forthcoming 12th State Elections #PRN12 due to the campaigning restriction and Standard Operating Procedure #SOP which are actually applicable to all parties.

I strongly believe there are no two sets of SOPs or laws.There are no two sets of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the upcoming state election and what that had been set for us in Gabungan Parti Sarawak #GPS, will be the same for others. There are no differences. No double standards.

Although the Election Commission (EC) has not announced anything yet, the SOPs set by Ministry of Health’s (MOH) for the Melaka state election may also be used for us in Sarawak. These include no house-to-house campaigning, rallies, and assemblies. YB Chong had mentioned as if their (DAP) hands and legs were tied, claiming it is unfair. He spoke as if the SOPs are only for the Opposition when in actual fact, it is for both sides.

Personally, I wish I can hold rallies, go to campaigns, do house-to-house visits, and give speeches in halls but we are not allowed to do all that. GPS will look at other ways to campaign. So my suggestion to YB Chong is that he will have to do the same and be smart about it.

No more seats to spare for Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (BERSATU) in the 12th Sarawak Election (PRN12)

Once again I have told our media friends that there are no more seats to spare for Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) in the forthcoming 12th Sarawak Election (PRN12) and there is no need for them to contest here.

I was asked to respond to the local media's query whether Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) will give way to Datuk Ali Biju of BERSATU who is the incumbent state assemblyman for N39 Krian seat and Member of Parliament for Saratok.

The component parties of GPS had more or less discussed among themselves on the seats allocation and we have already announced to be contesting in all 82 seats. So I don’t think there are anymore seats to spare for our friend from Semenanjung who is friendly with us. They have to respect us. Of course in Malaya, we are supporting them. But in Sarawak, I don’t think it is necessary for them to find an opportunity to contest in the State polls at the moment.

On another note, I have also described Puncak Borneo's Member of Parlaiment (MP), YB Datuk Willie Mongin’s decision to support our candidates fielding in his parliamentary constituency as a good gesture and suggests that other non-GPS MPs or incumbents do the same.

At the same time,  I remained to be tight-lipped on the probable Baleh candidacy which was left vacant after the passing of Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) president, the late Tan Sri Dr James Jemut Masing. At the moment, our (GPS) focus is more towards winning the election and I think we will win handsomely this time. We do hope that the people of Sarawak will give us the mandate.

I have also said the thrust of GPS has always been ‘Sarawak First’ and being a Sarawakian which I believe that it is only right that the people be patriotic to the State. If there is any problem with the State government or State leaders, you tell them what they need to change and improve.

Supporting our Chief Minister's statement on why Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) is seeking the people's mandate

We fully support our Chief Minister's statement on why  the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government would not be continuing to hold on to power when the mandate had expired because such actions would be a betrayal of its oath to preserve and protect the Sarawak State Constitution. 

Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg had mentioned this in this morning's special media conference and on reasons on why the GPS government’s decision to seek the Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s consent to lift the Emergency, which had paved way for the dissolution of the State Legislative Assembly (DUN). This was in line with the spirit and intent of preserving the Constitution. Our Chief Minister also pointed out that if the Emergency in Sarawak had not been further proclaimed until Feb 2 next year by Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, the DUN would have been dissolved by June 7 as required by the State Constitution.

We stand firm with what Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari had mentioned that when members of our government and himself were appointed, together we made the solemn oath to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the State of Sarawak and the Federal Constitution.

He told our media friends that the actions taken were in this spirit and intent that we have consulted with and advised the Yang di-Pertua Negeri in seeking the Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s consent to terminate earlier the proclamation of Emergency in accordance with Section 2(2) of the Emergency (Essential Powers) (Sarawak) Ordinance 2021.

Our Chief Minister had stressed without the further proclamation of the Emergency in Sarawak until Feb 2 next year, the GPS government would no longer have the people’s mandate, which was given in 2016, to govern. He pointed out the Yang di-Pertuan Agong had on Aug 2 further proclaimed the Emergency in Sarawak until Feb 2 next year due to the threat to public health caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Following the proclamation, he said the 12th state election, which was to be held upon the dissolution of DUN on June 7 under the State Constitution, was further postponed until the Emergency was no longer in force.He added once the Emergency is lifted, the state election is to be held within 60 days thereafter.

For the record, Section 2(2) of the Emergency (Essential Powers) (Sarawak) Ordinance 2021, however, provides that the operation of the proclamation of emergency may be terminated earlier by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong after consultation with the Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sarawak.

Honouring our Iban trackers who were awarded "Pingat Perwira Negeri" by Sarawak State Government

We thank our state government which had awarded the "Pingat Perwira Negeri (Bronze)" to 13 former Iban Trackers and Sarawak Rangers who served the country during the Emergency, confrontation and communist insurgency. 

The recipients received their awards from our Head of State, Yang diPertua Negeri Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud in the ceremony held Sibu on November 3. They include Engkang Sigaw, Gani Dugu, Ipoh Unggat, Jalin Maragan, Jampong Meng, Lebak Melintang, Lulut Aloh, Mangai Balah, Melintang Leng, Nutup Tubok, Ribut Barau, Unyat Chupong and Das Kumpang.

Our former Iban Trackers and Sarawak Rangers had served the country during the Malayan Emergency from 1948 to 1960, the confrontation period from 1963 to 1966, and the communist insurgency from 1968 to 1989. The state award presentation was the second for former Iban Trackers and Sarawak Rangers where the first was held last year in conjunction with the Head of State’s birthday celebration. They are our unsung heroes who had sacrificed their energy, sweat and blood in protecting as well as defending Malaysia’s sovereignty and security. Their heroic services and sacrifices were always be well remembered in which it is our security, peace and harmony they had safeguarded during the past challenging times. 

The Election Commission had briefed us on matters concerning forthcoming Sarawak's PRN12

Last night I have mentioned to our media friends that the Election Commission had briefed us that for the coming state polls, there will be no open or house-to-house campaigning can be done, and all voters would have to undergo screening, wear face masks as well as practice physical distancing.

Some may say such measures might slow down the voting process but it is still necessary to avoid any risk of getting Covid19 and perhaps if we have more lanes, the arrangement will also expedite things at the polling stations. It is not a problem for us and the standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the forthcoming Melaka state election may also be used during the coming Sarawak 12th State Election (PRN12).

But still I was not too sure about this matter because our State Legislative Assembly (DUN) has yet to be dissolved and from what I had gathered, that guideline which was mentioned by our Minister of Health, YB Encik Khairy Jamaluddin, it is meant for the Melaka state election.

But I am sure once our DUN has been dissolved and looking (whether) the Covid-19 cases are still there, I’m very sure – if it is applied to Melaka, then it will also be applied to Sarawak. That should not be a problem. For me, it is good to have certain SOP guidelines for our election. 

Even if we cannot go out for campaigning as was done before, it does not mean that democracy has been crippled. If you go to some other countries, they don’t even have that kind of campaigning that we have here. As such, what is important is that the voters as well as the public know who are the contesting candidates, which party they are representing, their academic background and the promises they made… from there, they will be able to judge for themselves whether the candidate is worthy for the votes.

Commenting on the way forward for Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS)

Our media friends had seek my comments on the issue of leadership in Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) after the demise of its president, late Tan Sri Datuk Amar Dr James Jemut Masing but I have mentioned that the party has many good leaders and it will be able to find a suitable successor. 

I believe that the party’s supreme council will identify a suitable person to fill the former deputy chief minister’s shoes. In any institutions when there is a vacant position, a replacement will be sought after. There are great leaders in PRS, so I am confident that they will know how to identify and select among themselves.

It is the way forward for PRS in light of the demise of their president who was the state assemblyman for Baleh in Kapit who passed away on  31 October. I opined the party, through its supreme council can appoint someone to assume the duties as president on temporary basis. When the party holds its general assembly, then a permanent president can be appointed.

I have also expressed the confidence for PRS to be able to identify a candidate to replace the late Tan Sri James Masing and they will find someone who can continue the struggles so that the area remains supervised and well-maintained.

We all know that Baleh is a stronghold of Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) and formerly, the Barisan Nasional (BN) Sarawak. We want to see the same for the future. The late Tan Sri James Masing is a close friend of mine and a good comrade who truly loves Sarawak. I offer my condolences to Puan Sri Corrine Masing and to his family. The late Tan Sri James will be remembered as someone who fought for the Dayaks and uplifted the community.

He did this is through education, infrastructure development or in terms of Native Customary Rights (NCR) land. Even though the late Tan Sri James is a strict and disciplined person but he has always been soft-spoken and a gentleman. Personally I rarely seeing him raising his voice. He has throughout his life, been a soft-spoken person in expressing his opinions and views.