KUCHING, Sept 12 — The close cooperation between Sarawak and Putrajaya serves as the foundation for Malaysia’s continued progress, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He pledged that the state remains firmly committed to working hand in hand with the federal government, citing projects such as the Sarawak-Sabah Link Road Phase Two as an example of shared priorities.
“I told the prime minister not to worry; Sarawak will also work with you to complete the road.
“This reflects how close the cooperation is between the federal government and the Sarawak government. Together, we are not only building roads but also strengthening the bonds between Malaysians,” he said at a community dinner hosted by the state in conjunction with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s two-day visit to Sarawak last night.
Abang Johari pledged Sarawak’s support for Anwar‘s vision to position Malaysia as a green energy hub in the Asean region, noting that Sarawak’s hydropower and hydrogen initiatives have gained international recognition.
“Just yesterday (Wednesday), our Bakun Hydroelectric Plant received an award (IHA Blue Plant Prize 2025) from the International Hydropower Association (IHA) for excellence in sustainable hydropower development, placing it among the best-managed hydropower sites in the world.
“This is part of our efforts to elevate Malaysia’s image and, God willing, much of the work we are doing can contribute towards Malaysia Madani,” he said.
He added that Sarawak will not rest on its laurels and, looking ahead, the state will provide free education for all Sarawakians at its state-owned universities, regardless of social background.
“This is to ensure we develop the talent needed for the new era,” he said.
Abang Johari also praised Anwar‘s role on the world stage, particularly his success in easing tensions between Cambodia and Thailand recently.
“This has raised Malaysia’s image as a champion of peace internationally,” he said, adding that Sarawak fully supports the prime minister’s efforts to uphold diplomacy and regional stability.
He called on Malaysians to safeguard unity and harmony as the country marks Malaysia Day on Sept 16.
“We pray that our country continues to be peaceful where our people of all races and religions live in harmony and, with that, we can focus on how to further develop our country towards a better future.
“If Sarawak is strong, Malaysia will be even greater,” he added.
Among those present at the dinner were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof as well as Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, and Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian. — The Borneo Post
