Junz
KOTA KINABALU: The appointment of Members of Parliament from Sabah and Sarawak in the federal cabinet seems to be fair to both states, Sabah Agriculture and Food Industry Minister Datuk Junz Wong said.
Junz, in congratulating Beluran Member of Parliament Datuk Seri Dr Ronald Kiandee on his appointment as Agriculture and Food Industry Minister, said he will be working closely with the latter in matters pertaining to Sabah.
“I will be working with all ministers from Sabah and hope all will put Sabah’s interest as their first priority,” he said, adding that this will help to rebuild Sabah.
Junz however was of the opinion that Datuk Dr Jeffrey Kitingan should have been appointed Deputy Home Minister so that the latter can come up with approaches to resolve the illegal immigrants issue in Sabah.
“Jeffrey should exchange portfolio with Jonathan (Deputy Home Minister). This will give him the opportunity to resolve long perennial illegal immigrants issue and I can’t wait to see what brilliant idea he has to resolve this matter. Now the ball is in their court and I’ll be waiting for their plan!” Junz said.
The Keningau Member of Parliament and Sabah STAR president was appointed Deputy Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister while Jonathan, Ranau Member of Parliament, was appointed Deputy Home Minister.
Junz was of the opinion that Dr Jeffrey is not keen on the Deputy Home Minister portfolio, adding, “because Sabahans know that all this while whatever he preached is just mere politicking empty talk.
“Otherwise he should fight for it (the Deputy Home Minister’s post),” he opined.
Meanwhile asked to comment on the creation of the Sabah and Sarawak Affairs Ministry under the Prime Minister’s Department, Junz said it was not a good development as the two states should be dealing directly with the Prime Minister.
The portfolio to which PBS president Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Ongkili was appointed to will only be duplicating duties and resulting in more red tape and bureaucracy, he said, adding, “if I want to discuss issues pertaining to agriculture, I would deal with Dr Ronald, why go through this ministry?”
When asked if he felt that Maximus was the right choice, Junz replied, “I’m not sure but let’s see what he can do to help Sabah and I can’t wait to see him bring good power back to Sabahans.”
He was also of the opinion that the oil royalty and illegal immigrant issues should be on top of Maximus’ to-do list.