KUCHING, June 22 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to Sarawak’s development and praised the state’s role as a future energy powerhouse during a Gawai Dayak celebration dinner attended by leaders and communities from diverse backgrounds in Kuching on Sunday night.
The event was also attended by the Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Haji Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, and Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Hajjah Fauziah Mohd Sanusi.
Anwar said that since assuming office, he has made it a priority to attend both the Gawai Dayak and Kaamatan celebrations annually, describing them as important symbols of Malaysia’s unity in diversity.
He noted that Gawai Dayak embodies Sarawak’s spirit of harmony and inclusiveness, highlighting the state’s “Segulai Sejalai” philosophy as a foundation for strengthening understanding, friendship and cooperation among people of different races and cultures.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the progress achieved under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), saying the MADANI Government has successfully implemented several long-standing matters that had previously remained unresolved.
While acknowledging that some issues still require careful negotiations and detailed consideration, Anwar said the strong relationship built on trust, friendship and mutual understanding between the Federal Government and the Sarawak Government has enabled significant progress to be made.
Among the key achievements, he cited the transfer of the Bintulu Port to the Sarawak Government as an important step reflecting confidence in the state’s ability to manage its own strategic assets.
“I believe that when a state is governed effectively, led by capable leaders who understand the principles of good governance, the benefits will be visible and felt by the people,” he said.
Anwar also reiterated Sarawak’s growing importance in the global energy sector, revealing that he has consistently highlighted the state’s vast potential during meetings with world leaders and major industry players, including during his recent visits to Russia, Turkmenistan and Japan.
He said Sarawak possesses significant advantages and has the potential to emerge as one of the leading energy hubs in the region.
On the ongoing relationship between national oil company PETRONAS and Sarawak-owned PETROS, Anwar said he and Sarawak Premier Abang Johari Tun Openg agreed that all remaining issues should be resolved fairly and equitably through a spirit of teamwork and cooperation.
He stressed that close collaboration between both companies is crucial to enhancing the prosperity and standing of both Sarawak and Malaysia.
“It can be done, it has been done, and it must be done,” Anwar said.
The Prime Minister further assured Sarawakians that the Federal Government would continue contributing to the state’s development agenda.
“We are one team. We work together and we achieve success together,” he said, expressing hope that ongoing efforts would help Malaysia, including Sarawak, continue to grow as a peaceful, just and prosperous nation that benefits all its people.
Anwar concluded by extending Gawai Dayak greetings to the people of Sarawak, wishing them prosperity, happiness and harmony as they celebrate the harvest festival.
— MINUTESMY
