KUCHING, Dec 5 2025: Governor Tun Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar today graced the launch of “Abang Johari: Sarawak’s First Premier” - a political biography of Premier Abang Johari Openg authored by Professor Michael Leigh.
Caption: Deputy Premier Douglas Uggah (right) handing over a copy of "Abang Johari: Sarawak's First Premier to Abang Johari Openg as Governor Tun Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar watches
Speaking at the launch, Wan Junaidi said the life and leadership of Abang Johari reflects a journey marked by vision, dedication, and a steadfast commitment to Sarawak’s progress.
“Throughout his tenure, he has strengthened our economic strategies, championed digital transformation, and pursued greater autonomy in managing our resources,” he said.
He said the premier’s initiatives to expand connectivity, uplift rural communities, and diversify the economy demonstrate his determination to build a resilient and modern Sarawak.
He said his relationship with Abang Johari extends over many years, adding:”We have walked the same political path and served together, sharing responsibilities in governance.
“Through these experiences, I have come to know him personally, as a colleague of integrity, a leader of steady temperament, and a man deeply committed to public service.
“Long before he assumed the office of Premier, I had observed his calm, deliberate approach to decision-making and his consistent sense of duty to the people,” he said.
Wan Junaidi described Abang Johari as a reformist, saying that his contributions, however, are recognised not only within Sarawak or Malaysia, but also acknowledged beyond the shores.
Deputy Premier Douglas Uggah, in his speech, said that the Dayak Cultural Foundation (DCF) undertook the biography because the story of the premier is, in many ways, the story of Sarawak’s modern transformation.
“This book stands as a gesture of appreciation from the Dayak community to the premier for his continuous support and enduring commitment to our people,” he added.
He said he believes that the book offers the public meaningful insights into Abang Johari’s experiences and principles - insights that have contributed to the strong, politically stable, harmonious, and flourishing Sarawak we know today.
“We are confident that this biography will stand as a lasting legacy,”he said, adding that DCF believes that the premier’s experiences and leadership deserve to be accurately and respectfully recorded, in order to honour and permanently preserve his monumental contributions within Sarawak’s rich history.
He said Abang Johari is widely recognised as a highly respected statesman, renowned both locally and internationally for his visionary leadership.
“He is a man of integrity, compassion, and wisdom, and a steadfast advocate of inclusive and progressive governance.
“DCF seeks to ensure that the contributions of Abang Jo are chronicled with accuracy, depth, and critical insight, thereby preserving an authoritative account of a leader whose impact will continue to shape Sarawak for generations to come,” he stressed.
Uggah said he first came to know Abang Johari in 1978 through Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), where they organised various activities and events together.
“Since then, I have regarded the premier as my mentor,” he said.
“ Over the years, we learned, served, and advanced under the same leadership and within the same party, consistently navigating challenges and working diligently to strengthen, build, and unite our political movement.
“Since 2017, I have had the privilege of serving in the Cabinet under his leadership,” Uggah said, adding that under Abang Johari’s stewardship, Sarawak stands tall, charting a bold new economic direction, including the establishment of the Sarawak Sovereign Wealth Future Fund, the embrace of digital transformation, and significant progress in renewable and green energy.”
No comments:
Post a Comment