KUCHING: The resounding victory for BN in Sarawak shows the strong and enduring partnership between federal government and state governments, which will enable BN to fulfil the promises made during the election.
Speaking to a packed press conference at the old State Legislative Building (DUN) after the State Election results were announced, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said it also showed the people’s wish for BN to bring Sarawak to the next level of development. He said the agenda that Sarawakians held close to their hearts – infrastructure development, education, basic facilities, and security – will be addressed for the benefit of the state.
“The Sarawak 4 Sarawak sentiments mean that the state wants the federal government to give due consideration to the rights of Sarawak.”
The empowerment process has begun, and in the next stage, both governments would look at legislation and allocations that could be considered based on the spirit of consensus, Najib added.
“Despite the opposition playing up the GST issue, it goes to show GST did not get traction that they wanted because people now understand why it was introduced,” he said, pointing out that using GST as strategy did no pay off in urban areas.
“They also understand it has been the saviour for the Malaysian economy. Because of GST, we’re able to introduce a number of new development projects for Sarawak, especially the Pan Borneo Highway – the single wild hot card because of the enormous benefits it will bring to the state.”
Najib said they could build on this victory and use its momentum, but there is still a lot of work to do to guarantee great success in the 14th General Election.
“We must assume this as a strong signal for BN, and a victory built on team effort. I’ve never seen a state election where federal and state leaders work together closely to the extent of staying here. It’s a great model of how BN has been successful by working closely together between federal and state governments.”