MIRI: People in the state are enjoying peace, political stability and organised development because leadership change in the state was not done in haste.
This was pointed out by Chief Minister Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud in his speech at the parade in conjunction with the 91st birthday celebration of Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Datuk Patinggi Abang Muhammad Salahuddin Abang Barieng at the Miri Stadium yesterday.
He said that since Sarawak became a partner in the formation of Malaysia 49 years ago, the state had had five heads of state and only four chief ministers, and there had been continuity in the planning and implementation of development.
“Leadership change is not done in haste so as to allow for maintenance of peace and stability in line with the people’s needs.”
Taib said that following the people’s mandate of a two-thirds majority at the state elections last year, the State Barisan Nasional (BN) government had continued to implement its electoral promises.
One of the promises was to increase investment in the Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE), he said, adding that more than 7,000 hectares of land had been made available to establish mini industrial estates in the corridor.
He also said that development would be carried out in Baram, the site for a proposed hydro-electric project.
“Change has taken place, but in an organised manner with promises that can be implemented,” he said, adding that the change brought about by the state government was backed by facts and not empty promises.
Taib, who is also president of Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB)Sarawak, said PBB was taking in academically highly qualified young people in preparation for future leadership change.
He added that the heads of state and chief ministers of the future would not face major problems because the process of leadership change would be carried out in an organised manner.
More than 10,000 people were present at the stadium and there were 91 contingents at the parade, matching the age of Tun Abang Muhammad Salahuddin. — Bernama