THE passing of the late Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud marked the conclusion of a memorable era.
Bawang Assan assemblyman Datuk Seri Wong Soon Koh said there are no better words to express gratitude for the former governor than saying he has devoted his entire life to the people of Sarawak.
He said the late Taib prepared the ground for Sarawak to launch itself into another stage of economic development.
“He prepared the way for Sarawak to embark on industrial development, particularly when he set up the Sarawak Coridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE).
“He also cared very much about the development of human resources. He set up training institutes, colleges, and universities. He set up all these educational institutes for men’s power requirements to meet industrial needs.
“And when he stepped down from the position of chief minister in 2014, he left behind a formidable sum in our state reserve,” he said.
He said this when debating in support of the motion of appreciation to the former Head of State today.
Noting that Sarawak has vast land, Wong said it was never easy to plan for infrastructure development.
But he said Taib was determined to do as much as possible, starting with the coastal road.
A colleague of about 50 years, Wong said he was one of the current assembly members who knew Taib better.
“He forged for Sarawak a united and harmonious society, living happily together irrespective of culture and religion.
“He also very often reminded us that we must think carefully and intelligently about our future and about the common destiny we share together.
“He reminded us many times. I must say that Tun Taib has left an indelible mark on state history and development,” he said.
