KUCHING: The year 2023 is expected to be a solid start for a shift towards more comprehensive reforms.
Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) Batang Lupar Branch Chief Abang Zulkifli Abang Engkeh said the people need fair treatment from the government.
Therefore, he stressed, the change in politics would lead to more empowered and transparent governance.
“The combination of political parties in the Unity Government facilitates various matters going forward. Therefore, people need to be well taken care of,” he said when asked about his aspirations for 2023 yesterday (Dec 26).
He added that protocols and bureaucracy should not burden the people, especially those who are in rural areas.
“They don’t have office facilities or government agencies like in towns or cities.
“So it is appropriate that when they visit, they should be treated with humanity, and not be too bound by written rules, for example, there are still many children in rural areas who do not have citizenship certificates due to various factors.
“In 2023, it is appropriate for the government to establish a body that does not only depend on the National Registration Department, given the very strict rules and bureaucracy that many children drop out of school,” he said.
He also hoped that Sarawak would remain peaceful and harmonious and not be disturbed by any form of extreme action.
“Sarawak is the best example of racial harmony, which should be maintained and further strengthened.
“The strength of unity cannot be conveyed by mere expressions, but it must be accompanied by actions by all parties, especially among leaders.
“Ahead of the new year as well, I am optimistic that positive changes will happen to the country after the sluggish economic situation.
“For example, comparing the ringgit to the dollar, the situation is getting better and the national leadership is working hard,” he said.
He then congratulated Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof for having been appointed Deputy Prime Minister.
“His appointment became a historical record for Sarawak. I hope that he will be able to carry out his responsibilities with perfection,” he expressed.
