KUCHING: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg is an exemplary figure when it comes to maintaining a positive public relations image.
It encompasses the way he presents himself, his attitude, body language, and articulate language.
Ahmad Farid Sainuri, an activist with the Muslim Youth Movement of Malaysia (ABIM), shared these observations on his Facebook page, noting that Abang Johari consistently rolls up his shirt sleeves, symbolising his hands-on approach and proactive stance.
“This indicates that he doesn’t just sit idly in the office. The image of rolled-up sleeves also signifies his readiness and commitment to work,” he explained.
Farid pointed out that the 8th Prime Minister, Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin also employed this image during live sessions amid the movement control order (MCO) period.
Another distinctive trait highlighted by Farid is the pen always clipped to Abang Johari’s attire, showcasing his preparedness to take notes and, simultaneously, wield his authority, especially when signing documents whenever necessary.
During a recent townhall session commemorating the Premier’s 7th anniversary, Farid observed Abang Johari’s open and expansive hand gestures, reflecting confidence and, at the same time, his dominance, fitting well with the townhall theme reporting Sarawak’s economic growth over his seven years in office.
Farid also commended Abang Johari as one of the best orators in the Malaysian political scene, using easy and articulate language.
“The Premier can explain the efforts made and those to be undertaken clearly, demonstrating that he is well-informed about everything. It’s not just reading from a script. Plus points: he also has a sense of humour,” he added.
Abang Johari has served as the head of government of Sarawak since January 2017, following the death of his predecessor, Pehin Sri Adenan Satem.
He is also the president of Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), a component party of the ruling Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) coalition, of which he is chairman.
Abang Johari was also credited with being the ‘Father of Sarawak Innovation and Transformation’, which is in line with his aspirations to lead Sarawak towards development and progress through political stability.
His exceptional leadership over the past seven years became apparent when World Bank economists officially acknowledged Sarawak as a high-income state in July 2023.
This recognition validates the forward-thinking policies and initiatives implemented by the Premier, acting as trailblazers in advancing the state’s development through digitisation and environmental sustainability.
