An open letter to all Sarawakians
From PDP senior vice president Datuk Sri Wong Soon Koh
Sarawakians, our future is at a crossroads.
Sarawak faces a defining and a daunting moment. Political forces from outside are actively seeking to expand their influence in our state, testing our unity and resolve.
This is more than just a political contest—this is about ensuring that Sarawak remains in the hands of Sarawakians, free from external agendas that do not align with our long-term interests.
While discussions on the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) continue, and while details of Petros-Petronas collaboration are still under discussion, it is clear that our strength at the negotiating table depends on our unity.
A divided Sarawak weakens our position, making us more vulnerable to external pressures. Only by standing together can we ensure a better future for Sarawak and its people.
At the forefront of this effort is Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg, a leader with vision, courage, resilience, and a deep sense of commitment and dedication to Sarawak’s progress.
He has been relentless in his mission to advance Sarawak’s interests. His leadership has already brought great benefits, and his efforts have resulted in major victories boosting Sarawak’s economy and strengthening our autonomy.
As soon as he assumed leadership, he created in 2017 Petros (Petroleum Sarawak Berhad) to regulate and participate in the industry reducing Petronas’ dominance.
The premier imposed 5% sales tax on petroleum products, forcing Petronas to comply after a court battle, securing billions in revenue for Sarawak.
He also enforced Oil Mining Ordinance (OMO) 1958 requiring all oil and gas operators to obtain state approval.
In 2021, he successfully fought for amendments to the Federal Constitution to officially recognize Sarawak and Sabah as equal partners to Malaya in Malaysia.
Article 1(2) was amended to reaffirm Sarawak’s status as a region , not just one of the 13 states. Article 160(2) was also amended to define federation based on MA63 rather than the 1957 Malayan Federation.
The premier is now pushing for greater autonomy in oil and gas agreements. He also initiated negotiations for autonomous powers in health care, education, infrastructure and environmental policies in the spirit of MA63.
All in all, he is working hard towards more devolution and decentralization of powers aligning MA63.
Yet, new challenges lie ahead. Malayan political parties are making strategic moves to gain a foothold in Sarawak.
This is not simply about political expansion—it is an attempt to shift our political landscape, potentially bringing instability and uncertainty to our state.
We cannot allow this to happen!
Now is the time for Sarawakians to stand together. We must strengthen our resolve, support our leaders, and send a clear message: Sarawak’s political future should be shaped by Sarawakians, not by external forces with their own agendas.
This is the moment to put aside differences and focus on what truly matters—keeping Sarawak strong and independent in its decision-making.
We cannot afford to be divided. We must remain vigilant against those who seek to undermine our unity for their own political gain.
We have seen what happens when Malayan parties are given a chance. Even today, some of our parliamentary seats remain under their control.
But what have they done for us? Where is the 20% oil royalty they once promised? Have they prioritized our people, or have they merely used their positions to serve party agendas from outside our state?
The reality is clear—only the premier and GPS have consistently championed Sarawak’s development and progress.
Under Abang Johari Openg’s leadership, Sarawak has secured new opportunities, strengthened its economy, and positioned itself as a leader in regional development.
His indispensable leadership is our asset that must not be undermined. With him at the helm, Sarawak is on the right track—but we must stand with him resolutely to ensure continued stability and growth and at the same continue to pursue Sarawak rights under MA 63, working to restore the State’s autonomy.
Sarawakians, the future is in our hands.
Say NO to outside interference. Say NO to Malayan political parties. Say YES to GPS. Say YES to our YAB Premier. YES to a strong and united Sarawak.
Let us stand firm, let us unite, and just like a family use the combined resources and spirit to overcome all challenges, the peoples of Sarawak should all strive for common goals to achieve common good.
All peoples of Sarawak should join hands together resolutely to strive for shared vision and common destiny ,United and strong.
The choice before us is therefore clear but daunting- to unite or suffer the consequences of disunity.
Together and working steadfastly together, we will ensure that Sarawak’s destiny remains in Sarawakian hands.
