Abdullah Saidol
KUCHING: Chief Minister Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg is in no rush to announce the Barisan Nasional (BN) candidate for Tanjong Datu, says Abdullah Saidol – chief political secretary to the Chief Minister.
He said Abang Jo has many factors to consider including the goodwill of Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem.
“After the official announcement by the EC (Election Commission), the Chief Minister had called me to discuss a few preliminary things.
“Among others, he wants to ensure BN (Barisan Nasional) continues to have a strong team of dedicated representatives, who not only know how to take care of their constituencies but also fully understand the struggle initiated by the late Tok Nan on Administrative Autonomy and other matters that relate to the state’s interest,” he said.
Abdullah said the Chief Minister would decide on the candidate after getting the relevant feedback from various parties, especially from grassroots supporters, and would likely only announce the candidate a few days before nomination day.
However, he said preparations for the Tanjung Datu by-election would be mobilised soon.
Abdullah said although Tanjong Datu is considered a ‘white area’ for BN, Abang Johari’s main concern is about continuing and fulfilling Adenan’s desires for his constituency.
The seat fell vacant when Adenan passed away on Jan 11.
The EC has fixed Feb 4 for the nomination and Feb 18 for polling.
Meanwhile, Abdullah said Abang Johari wanted Sarawakians, especially rural folk, to remember and appreciate the Rural Transformation Programme (RTP) was initiated by Adenan.
“RTP projects, which fully utilise state funds, were successfully implemented throughout Sarawak in every rural constituency for the last few years and the government will continue implementing many projects this year.
“These RTP projects focus on medium and small projects such as upgrading connecting roads in villages or longhouses, jetties, building new community halls and many others,” he said.