‘Business as usual’ government won’t work

KUCHING: Federal ministers and deputy ministers from Sarawak have been urged to carry out their duties in a “business unusual” manner.

Telang Usan assemblyman Dennis Ngau said as the country’s political situation was not stable yet, the ministers ought to be more creative, have a heightened sense of urgency, and work differently without breaking any law.

“For instance, in responding to requests from Sarawakian elected representatives for development projects or on any matter where a ministry could help, please cut the red tapes.

“Take the cue from how the late Tok Nan (former Chief Minister Pehin Seri Adenan Satem) and our current Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg who always responded to requests for projects almost instantly,” he said.

He said it would be best for them to treat every day as if it was their last time in office.

“With this kind of attitude or mindset, I am very sure their detractors and nay-sayers in Sarawak would see the wisdom of GPS in accepting Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyddin Yassin’s invitation to fill some posts in his Cabinet.

“Many would realise that our moves were spot on and far sighted, but if the federal government carries on as usual just like its predecessors, many people especially the sceptics will become cynical and label Perikatan Nasional as a back door government,” he said.

Confident that the new Cabinet would take the country along the correct path, he urged all quarters, especially the opposition to accept the new government and be supportive for the sake of the country.

 “Muhyiddin’s government must not be like Pakatan Harapan which continuously looked back and blamed Barisan Nasional instead of just governing wisely and working as hard as possible in honour of and appreciation for the mandate given to it by the voters.

“That was why it was often accused of blaming others to cover up their inability and weaknesses in running the country,” he said.

According to Dennis, while blaming others or pointing out the faults or weaknesses of one’s opponent during an election campaign could be justified, it could only go so far and had time limit.

“It should not go on and on, or repeated over and over like a broken vinyl record. It gets old quickly and makes people fed up because they want their leaders to just get things done no matter the obstacles and hardship.

“No one wants to listen to endless excuses no matter how reasonable or factual they are. After a while, the people just want the government to concentrate on creating an excellent economic climate and keep the country safe,” he said.