KUCHING: The late Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem’s fair policy and his determination in fighting for Sarawak’s rights will be his legacy.
President of Federation of Kuching and Samarahan Divisions Chinese Associations, Sarawak, Datuk Richard Wee said this when contacted for his comment yesterday.
Wee, who is also chairman of Board of Management of Chung Hua Middle School (CHMS) No 1, 3 and 4 said: “I am saddened by the shocking news that our chief minister has passed away. Initially, I thought it was wrong. I was despair and lost.
“This is a great loss to the Chinese community and Chinese education. Adenan is by far the best chief minister in as far as the Chinese community, Chinese education and Sarawak as a whole is concerned.
“Sarawak has lost a capable, fair, just and good leader. He was very outspoken, and most determined to carry out the policy he wanted to implement. His willingness to provide assistance to Chinese schools will be his legacy to the Chinese community.
Wee, also Kuching Hockien Association president said the late Adenan had provided financial assistance to Chinese education and recognition of Unified Examination Certificate in the state. This would be the legacy the Chinese community remember him for.
He added the Chinese community was hoping that there would be many more fair and just policies under his leadership.
“Unfortunately, he is now gone. It is our sincere hope that his successor will continue his policy for the good of all races and Chinese education. We also hope that the fight for Sarawak rights will be continued.
“We offer our deepest condolences to the family,” said Wee.
Secretary general of Kuching Chinese General Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and secretary general of Sarawak Business Federation, who is also secretary general of the Federation of Association of Chinese Aided Primary School Boards of Management Sarawak, Chai Voon Tok, also said Adenan’s passing was sad news.
“It is a great loss to the country as a whole and Sarawak in particular. He will be remembered fondly as an astute and intelligent statesman.
Chai said Adenan had left a legacy of a chief minister who dared make unprecedented moves by demanding for greater autonomy from the federal government and making Sarawak the first state to recognise UEC.
“During his short term as chief minister, he made tough stance against illegal logging, stopped the issuance of new timber concessions, provided annual grants for Chinese independent secondary schools, increased social welfare subsidies to the needy, and most importantly his moderate style of leadership was well received by all Sarawakians regardless of race and religion.
“He will be missed for his singing and humour on numerous occasions,” said Chai.