KUCHING: Former Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud has contributed to what Sarawak is enjoying today – the political stability and racial unity.
Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) vice president Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the matter was not something that could be achieved easily.
“Taib has contributed so much to what we are having in Sarawak today, the political stability and racial unity where various ethnicities and racial groups in the state show respect towards each other
“A lot of this attributed to the foundation which was laid by Taib when he was the Chief Minister of Sarawak for 33 years,” he said when expressing sadness following the demise of Taib.
Sarawak, he said, was able to put aside all these and the people were able to live peacefully and this is also attributed to the leaders that have been able to understand this tolerance and make sure that the society is able to adapt to this.
“This is also where Taib, the Chief Minister then, was able to advocate, and educate the people to respect each other,” he said.
Abdul Karim added building and achieving unity was something that could not happen overnight.
“To create a harmonious society is not an easy task, sometimes you have to be very firm and soft. At the same time, people may not support you fully.
“Which is why when Taib was the leader, he was faced with challenges such as issues on racial, political parties, and the Ming Court Affair.
“But he got through it and was able to lead and manage Sarawak to what we see today,” he said.
On another note, he said Taib had also contributed to the development of Sarawak.
“When he came back in 1981 to become Chief Minister, Sarawak was still very laid back. Samarahan is not what we see now, back then you had to use a boat.
“With the development in place, areas such as Samarahan, Mukah, Bintulu, Lawas, Limbang, Miri, Betong and others have changed so much and all these are the fruits of leaders of tomorrow who have planned the infrastructure development very well,” he said.
