Anwar arrives for the dinner while accompanied by Abang Johari. – Photo by Kong Jun Liung
KUCHING (Sept 11): Malaysia’s progress and growth have been made possible by political stability, which is anchored by the strong support of Sarawak, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He said since becoming prime minister, Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has stood firmly behind him, enabling him to focus on governance without being distracted by political upheavals.
“I am thankful to the Premier, who throughout my nearly three years as prime minister, has given me unwavering support.
“He has never caused me to worry, which allows me to focus. Likewise, he too can focus without being distracted by political upheaval,” he said at a community dinner at a hotel here tonight.
He acknowledged that political temperatures still rise from time to time and stressed that such matters must be managed with wisdom and trust.
“Sometimes statements can go too far. In the Peninsula, people speak of race, insulting other communities.
“But from what tradition, religion, or culture do we learn to foster hatred? Where is our shared humanity? These issues remain, and we must handle them wisely,” he said.
Anwar also spoke on the importance of language, stressing that while Bahasa Malaysia remains the national language, English and other languages must also be given emphasis.
“Speaking in favour of English does not mean demeaning Bahasa Malaysia. Prioritising English does not mean abandoning Bahasa Malaysia.
“In this, I fully support Premier Abang Jo’s efforts in Sarawak (in placing emphasis on the usage of the English language.
“English is crucial, as are other languages such as Chinese, Tamil, Iban, Melanau, Bidayuh.
“Enriching these languages is no loss to the nation,” he said, adding that his remarks had been misunderstood by certain quarters.
Anwar speaks during the dinner. – Photo by Kong Jun Liung
He also said that the same applied to religions, stressing that Malaysia has always been a multi-religious country.
“The late Tun Abang Haji Openg was Muslim, but the late Temenggong Tun Jugah Barieng was not. Yet both of them united for the nation’s success.
“When I speak of inclusivity, I mean respecting and honouring diversity while also recognising Islam as the religion of the federation.
“I stress this because Sarawak is fortunate not to face the same ethnic and religious tensions seen in some states of the Peninsula. Protect this unity well,” he said.
Anwar pointed out that by maintaining peace and unity, this would allow the nation to focus on priorities such as technology, training and talent development.
He commended Abang Johari’s efforts in exploring new technologies like artificial intelligence and digital transformation.
“These require well-trained youth, more engineers, and stronger synergies between industries, universities, and TVET institutions.
“All this can only be achieved if politics remains stable and the leadership has a clear vision,” he said.
Anwar said stability at both federal and state levels, supported by strong economic and social policies, would ease the burden on the people.
“What matters most is what the rakyat gains,” he stressed.
Also present at the dinner were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, and deputy premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, and Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.
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