The nation has been enveloped in a pall of gloom recently as ongoing problems were exacerbated by new troubles.
The 1MDB troubles besetting Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak just refuse to die down and it is creating so much uncertainty over the leadership of the nation.
Then there is on-going storm over the suspension of accounts of timber companies including some remotely connected to the industry by MACC causing untold hardship to those affected.
And in the midst of these storms a lightning struck in the form of the brazen kidnapping of a restaurant manager and a diner in Sandakan, Sabah last week. That tragedy hit home for Sarawakians as the unfortunate diner is from the state.
One could be forgiven for wondering if we a going through a cursed spell but thankfully amidst gloom there is a spark of good tidings from our state. The toll at Lanang Bridge in Sibu which has been a heavy burden for those who have to cross the bridge regularly is officially lifted today by Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem at a celebration on the bridge today.
More good news on bridge tolls is coming soon as the Asean Bridge linking the state to Brunei will cease charging toll on June 1. There is more
than meets the eye in the waiving of tolls as more significant than the removing the burden of those using the bridges, it is proof that the government of the day actually walks its talk.
There were smirks and knowing nods when Adenan announced his plans soon after taking over from Pehin Taib Mahmud – many of the goals including the lifting of the tolls sounded rather far-fetched.
Just over a year in office he has proven beyond doubt that he meant what he said through his relentless pursuit of what he declared he would do.
The lifting of the tolls is a milestone in Adenan’s tenure as chief minister but there are many more to achieve.
A long steep rocky road lies ahead as the other ‘dragons’ he set out to slay are more powerful than those at our bridges and he will need the full support of the people to strive for those lofty goals.
In the meantime let us savour that bright spark that emanates from Lanang Bridge today.