(Kuching, 14th) Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg stated that the decision of who should succeed as the Sarawak Premier should ultimately be determined by the people; leadership must be founded on integrity, steadfast values, and a high sense of responsibility.
Speaking last night (January 13) at the 'Townhall 9 Tahun Bersama YAB Premier Sarawak' held at the Hikmah Exchange Activity Centre in Kuching, he emphasized that the premiership is not driven by personal ambition but is a weighty responsibility entrusted by the people.
Reflecting on his own succession as Premier, he noted that after the passing of the late Pehin Sri Adenan Satem, he took up the responsibility with the trust and mandate from his party colleagues and the people.
He said: “The position of Premier is a heavy trust. Every word and every decision carries responsibility, not just in this life, but the hereafter as well.”
Speaking about the values that future leaders should possess, Abang Johari stressed that, regardless of background, a sincere heart to serve the people and adherence to moral and religious principles must guide decision-making.
Using Sarawak’s implementation of free education as an example, he pointed out that this reflects a governance philosophy grounded in long-term responsibility, rather than short-term political considerations. He explained that the policy is based on the belief that passing on knowledge to the next generation is a lasting contribution; such efforts not only benefit the recipients, but also the people who support and enable their leaders.
In discussing the qualities of leadership, he stated that potential successors must demonstrate strong character, integrity, and the ability to faithfully fulfill their duties, warning that any deviation from these principles could lead to serious consequences.
He added that leadership is not limited to one person, but applies to all who are entrusted with responsibility; in this regard, Sarawak’s leaders serving at the national level exemplify the fulfillment of this trust.
Abang Johari also emphasized the importance of properly managing Sarawak’s multi-ethnic and multi-religious society in order to maintain harmony and stability, describing peace as the foundation of sustainable development.
Looking back on his own political journey, he said that leaders are gradually shaped through time, experience, and guidance; he himself benefited from the long-term mentorship of several former Sarawak leaders, including the late Tun Pehin Sri Taib Mahmud and the late Pehin Sri Adenan Satem.
After over 40 years of political career, he acknowledged that leadership transition is inevitable, but stressed that Sarawak’s development must continue being advanced by the new generation in innovative ways.
He said: “The future leadership of Sarawak lies in the hands of the people and the younger generation. Most importantly, Sarawak must continue to develop in new and better ways.”
Speaking last night (January 13) at the 'Townhall 9 Tahun Bersama YAB Premier Sarawak' held at the Hikmah Exchange Activity Centre in Kuching, he emphasized that the premiership is not driven by personal ambition but is a weighty responsibility entrusted by the people.
Reflecting on his own succession as Premier, he noted that after the passing of the late Pehin Sri Adenan Satem, he took up the responsibility with the trust and mandate from his party colleagues and the people.
He said: “The position of Premier is a heavy trust. Every word and every decision carries responsibility, not just in this life, but the hereafter as well.”
Speaking about the values that future leaders should possess, Abang Johari stressed that, regardless of background, a sincere heart to serve the people and adherence to moral and religious principles must guide decision-making.
In discussing the qualities of leadership, he stated that potential successors must demonstrate strong character, integrity, and the ability to faithfully fulfill their duties, warning that any deviation from these principles could lead to serious consequences.
He added that leadership is not limited to one person, but applies to all who are entrusted with responsibility; in this regard, Sarawak’s leaders serving at the national level exemplify the fulfillment of this trust.
Abang Johari also emphasized the importance of properly managing Sarawak’s multi-ethnic and multi-religious society in order to maintain harmony and stability, describing peace as the foundation of sustainable development.
Looking back on his own political journey, he said that leaders are gradually shaped through time, experience, and guidance; he himself benefited from the long-term mentorship of several former Sarawak leaders, including the late Tun Pehin Sri Taib Mahmud and the late Pehin Sri Adenan Satem.
After over 40 years of political career, he acknowledged that leadership transition is inevitable, but stressed that Sarawak’s development must continue being advanced by the new generation in innovative ways.
He said: “The future leadership of Sarawak lies in the hands of the people and the younger generation. Most importantly, Sarawak must continue to develop in new and better ways.”