Close Federal Ties Prove GPS Is A Respected Political Force – Abang Johari

MIRI, July 22 (Bernama) -- The close cooperation between Sarawak and the Federal Government under the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim proves that Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) is a respected and formidable political force.

Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the appointment of Sarawak native Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof as Deputy Prime Minister, along with the presence of several federal ministers from the state, was a significant recognition of Sarawak.

“Never before has a Sarawakian been entrusted with the responsibility of Deputy Prime Minister. This shows that Sarawak under the GPS platform is a respected political power,” he said in his speech at the 62nd Sarawak Day celebration here tonight.

As the head of the GPS government, he said the strong collaboration with the Federal Government would continue in the interest of both the nation and Sarawak, adding that the state’s pursuit of prosperity would not hinder national development.

“The increase in Sarawak’s revenue, including through the state sales tax, will not reduce the federal revenue as the Federal Government has ample room to boost its income without burdening the people,” he said.

Abang Johari also rebuked claims by certain quarters that Sarawak was being “excessive” or greedy in asserting its rights, stressing that the demands were based on the Federal Constitution and the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).

He said GPS would continue fighting for Sarawak’s rights through negotiations with the Federal Government, guided by the MA63 framework.

“Sarawak has successfully regained nine rights enshrined under MA63, and efforts will continue to reclaim all those that have been eroded,” he said.

He also reflected on the key decision made by Sarawak’s leaders 62 years ago to join in forming Malaysia for greater security and prosperity.

According to him, Sarawak now contributes nearly 10 per cent to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), placing it among the top contributors among the states.

Abang Johari said the World Bank had also recognised Sarawak as a high-income region for three consecutive years since 2022, based on its Gross National Income (GNI) per capita figure of RM73,100 in 2024, exceeding the set threshold of RM63,800.

“This status places Sarawak in fourth position after the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur and Labuan, and Penang, surpassing Selangor.

“Alhamdulillah, guided by clear, concrete, and forward-looking economic policies, Sarawak has achieved high-income status eight years ahead of schedule,” he said.

He also reminded the people not to forget the noble values and cultural heritage that formed the foundation of Sarawak’s unity.

“These values and heritage have made us stronger and more united, as shown by our participation in the Madani Government led by the Prime Minister,” he said, expressing confidence that Sarawak was on the right track to becoming a developed region by 2030.

The ceremony was also attended by Sarawak Governor Tun Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife, Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, as well as Sarawak Cabinet ministers.

-- BERNAMA