MIRI: Caretaker Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has spelt out why it is important to maintain the political stability Sarawak now enjoys.
He said this was to guarantee continuous development, by way of ensuring investor confidence and facilitating economic growth.
“As far as Miri is concerned, the people are happy. People from rural areas are also coming to Miri to earn a living and we live harmoniously and that is key if we want to move forward and progress.
“No investor will come in if their confidence level is low, even though we have oil. If you want to see an oil and resource rich country, but which has no stability, just look at Sudan.
“Sudan is an oil rich country but until today, they keep on changing the government and its people are fighting against each other,” he said.
He was speaking at the launch of the Miri City Hall here on Monday (Nov 15).
Abang Johari said Sarawak was fortunate to have stability in politics, pointing to the current situation in Malaya where there were three prime ministers in a short time, to illustrate his point about instability.
“I don’t know what will happen to Malacca (in its upcoming state election), but Sarawak is okay. So we need to set aside our personal agenda and focus,” he said, adding, “we are fortunate that Miri is prosperous.”
Abang Johari also said Sarawak’s partner in oil and gas was returning to Miri, adding that the decision was probably due the stability in the state.
“They need office space and a lot of people are coming in; a lot of people are coming back to Miri. If Sarawak is in (disarray), who will want to come?” he said.
The chief minister said with more investments coming into Miri, this would drive the local economy.
“That is important if you want to run the city, the investment, the real estate will come in, and of course, the revenue will increase and we will use it back for re-investment to improve the city.”
