Adenan waves a flag to officially launch the rationalisation of state ferry service rates. From left are Entri and Jamilah.
CM says he must have the people’s backing to achieve the development goals he set for the state
MARUDI: Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem says he wants the mandate from the people to support his development plans for the state.
He said his present mandate to lead the state was handed down to him from his predecessor Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud but he wanted the reassurance of the people’s strong backing to pursue his goals for the state.
Adenan added that more development had been planned for the state and he required a strong mandate from the people to continue the push to serve them better.
“Give me a mandate as the present mandate is by (Tun) Pehin Sri (Abdul Taib Mahmud). I want my own mandate. I walk the talk and you can try me on this one,” he said when launching the rationalisation of state ferry service rates here yesterday.
The ferry fare has dropped from RM15 to RM1 for cars.
The Chief Minister disclosed that the state government would build bridges in Bako, Limbang and Long Lama this year to improve economic activities through rural infrastructure development.
He stressed the emphasis on rural development was to narrow the gap with urban centres, create economic opportunities, and reduce rural-urban migration.
The funding for the projects was part of the RM500 million allocation he sought for rural development during the last State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting, which was opposed by the Democratic Action Party (DAP).
Adenan said the solid support of Sarawakians was necessary to ensure he could negotiate with the federal government from a position of strength on the allocation of funds and policy matters affecting the state.
“You must help me. You must back me up. With a strong mandate, they will know that Sarawak is behind me,” he said.
He highlighted the success in getting greater concessions, including over RM2 billion worth of contracts for Sarawakian companies from Petronas and RM50 million in corporate social responsibility projects such as building technical schools.
Adenan added that the state continues to push for the desired 20 per cent petroleum royalties for greater development.
“We will not stop until we get it,” he stated.
The Chief Minister also reiterated his stance on religious freedom in the state.
“I may be the most powerful man in Sarawak right now but I will never tell you how to practise your religion — Christians can use the word ‘Allah’ anytime and there is freedom to practise your religion anywhere in Sarawak,” he said.
Among those present at the event were Adenan’s wife Datin Patinggi Datuk Jamilah Anu, Assistant Minister of Public Utilities (Water Supply)
Datuk Sylvester Entri Muran, and Miri Resident Antonio Kathi Gallis.