KUCHING: Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem was a visionary and humble statesman, who believed Sarawak was more than just a state in Malaysia, said Kuching Chinese General Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Datuk Wee Kok Tiong.
He said Adenan’s determination to build a clean and just government demonstrated his wisdom and desire to bring Sarawak to greater heights.
“He knew that Sarawakians share an unbreakable bond and he gave his full devotion to make sure that Sarawak’s liberty and rights were well preserved,” Wee said when contacted yesterday.
“He has passed on a tremendous legacy to us, to the Land of the Hornbills, and to all Malaysians. Sarawak has lost a great statesman, a humble leader and a friend.”
Sarawak Housing and Real Estate Developer Association (Sheada) Kuching advisor Sim Kiang Chiok agreed that
Adenan’s passing was a great loss to Sarawak and Malaysia.
Sim called Adenan a great statesman who served the country with full commitment and dedication.
“His love for Sarawak and Malaysia was unconditional as he served us till his last breath.
“He had spoken, defended Sarawak’s rights within Malaysia and made Sarawak a much more peaceful nation. No hudud law, Chinese in Sarawak are not ‘pendatang’ (immigrants), religious bigots and racists are not welcome in Sarawak, English is the second official language, UEC (Unified Examination Certificate) is recognised in Sarawak and negotiating on higher oil royalties,” he said.
Sim pointed out that Adenan also prioritised rural development to reduce the gap between the haves and have nots, as well as focus on construction of the Pan-Borneo Highway.
“His policy was always for the wellbeing of Sarawakians and to have a fair deal for Sarawak in Malaysia. He made Sarawak a proud state.
“I will miss him and pray that he will rest in peace. May he keep watch over us from heaven,” added Sim.