Full confidence in Hajiji, Abang Jo: Anwar
Published on: Wednesday, September 18, 2024
By: Larry Ralon
Hajiji and Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg watch as Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim signs the Malaysia Day Special Book during the 2024 National Malaysia Day celebration while others look on.
Kota Kinabalu: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim called on all, especially leaders, to reflect on the history of Malaysia’s formation and learn from the good conscience and vision of the founding fathers.
“They (the founding fathers) were not overly sophisticated in their discussions. They did not have long certificates but they had a good conscience and vision for the future generations of their nation.
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“This is what we must nurture. I believe, God willing, whether it’s in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), which we continue to work tirelessly on, especially the Technical Committee under the leadership of (Deputy Prime Minister) Datuk Seri Fadilah Yusof, or in any other programme.
“We must work together to uplift the dignity of all states, especially rural or remote areas, as well as impoverished urban areas,” he said at the national level Malaysia Day celebration at Padang Merdeka, here, Monday night.
Anwar also appreciated the leadership of the Sabah Chief Minister and the Sarawak Premier who expressed concerns and demanded state rights under the spirit of friendship.
He said although both leaders expressed grievances and made demands, it was done in the spirit of friendship to ensure the success of Malaysia as a nation.
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“I was fortunate that upon assuming the role of Prime Minister, I had two friends in whom I placed full confidence: the Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor and the Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
“They came together in agreement, spoke clearly, and offered constructive criticism as friends.
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“So, I hope other leaders can learn from the spirit they have demonstrated. It is not true to say that they did not make demands, express concerns or requests, just as I do. I ask and request things from them, but the spirit of unity to make Malaysia successful remains,” he said.
According to him, if there is consensus and good discussions, it will ease the work between the states and the Federation.
“That is why, as a father figure, I would like to advise my colleagues to work as a team and avoid extreme ideologies, like what we hear in the peninsula — racial extremism that incites hatred and enemies.
“If you listen to some speeches, it’s all about hate... there is no mercy or compassion at all. That’s why we must learn from the history of Malaysia’s formation and from the founding fathers of independence, whether here or in Sarawak.”
Sabah Head of State Tun Juhar Mahiruddin graced the event.
Anwar, Hajiji and Abang Johari also signed the Malaysia Day 2024 special book.
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