Communication and Culture deputy minister
KUCHING: Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg is correct in getting Sarawak to undertake its own development initiative, said Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) deputy president Datuk Joseph Salang Gandum (pic).
He said this in response to Abang Johari’s recent statement that the state government had to take the lead in projects (like funding devt projects) due to the reluctance of the federal government to support the state’s vision.
“To do this, we have to make sure the revenues accorded to Sarawak under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) go to Sarawak’s coffers.
“Similarly, Sarawak must also build up its capacity to undertake the development programmes,” he told New Sarawak Tribune when contacted yesterday.
Asked whether the state’s government decision would only turn the relationships between the federal and state governments sour, Joseph replied in the negative.
“Sarawak is asking for only what is provided under MA63 so that there (are) funds for its development,” he said.
“If we don’t do this, the accusations that Sarawak is a colony of Malaya are self-fulfilling.”
