KUCHING: The installation of the RM30 million Sarawak flagpole in the city is funded by the private sector and not the state government.
In reiterating this, the Premier’s political secretary Abdul Samat Gany rebutted the argument put forth by Democratic Action Party Socialist Youth (DAPSY) Sarawak head Peter Hee that the government should use the money for the people.
“Most would have read and understood pretty well that the erection of the flagpole was a private sector proposition and funded project in its corporate social responsibility (CSR) spirit.
“The state government is only involved in matters relating to identifying the site for the project.
“This reflects Hee’s sheer ignorance of its source of funding, likewise the very purpose and benefit the flagpole brings for the people,” said Abdul Samat in a statement yesterday.
“The rationale and funding for the country’s tallest flagpole has been clearly reiterated by the Premier on Feb 2 this year.
“The public at large understood and accepted it with an open mind as the flagpole would certainly add colour to the city’s landmarks and complement our efforts to lure tourists to the country.
“So, it’s pretty clear no funding is made by the state government on this project. So where is the wasting of state funds and the wrong spending here you claimed earlier, Peter?” he asked.
He explained that the yearly development budget has always been a people-centric one focusing on rural development to elevate the socio-economic livelihood of the people including long term poverty eradication programmes as clearly stipulated in PCDS 2030.
Billions of ringgit have been allocated and spent along these causes from the state’s very own coffers particularly on infrastructure development like bridges, road, water grid and telecommunications to bring Sarawakians into the development mainstream, said Abdul Samat.
He said more fund continues to be spent from year to year to embark on rigorous developments in the state where people will enjoy economic prosperity, social inclusivity and sustainable environment once it attains its status as a high income and developed state by 2030.
“It might catch you by surprise that some strategic planning and project rollouts have been fulfilled, some are even ahead of schedule.
“So, this reflects the government’s commitment towards the development agenda and has brought tremendous benefits to the people at large.”
As such advised Hee to be rational in his argument and judgement by equipping himself with proper knowledge before making any statement.
“Your action to the contrary will only land you as being a non-credible person,” said Abdul Samat.
