Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg urged Sarawak-based parties within the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) coalition to maintain unity to protect the state's rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and secure political stability and economic growth in Sarawak [1, 2]. He spoke on May 16 while officiating the Progressive Democratic Party Triennial General Assembly [2].
Abang Johari stressed that Sarawak's political cohesion has enabled the state to play a decisive role in shaping Malaysia's federal leadership during times of national political uncertainty. He said, "When politics is volatile, the component that is united will determine the future of Malaysia. If Sarawak's voice is to be heard, Sarawak must remain united" [1].
He underscored that GPS parties have consistently prioritized Sarawak’s interests and pursued commitments made under MA63. "We do not want more, we do not want less, but we want them to comply with what was agreed upon by our forefathers," Abang Johari said [1].
Sarawak’s strong and stable governance has allowed long-term development policies to be implemented. This includes free tertiary education for Sarawakian students at state-owned institutions, renewable energy projects, and efforts in digital transformation and hydrogen energy development [1, 2]. On education, Abang Johari remarked, "Today, as long as your children enter university, there is no more financial problem. You do not have to pay because GPS is paying for you" [1].
The premier highlighted the state’s focus on emerging sectors such as hydrogen energy, aerospace, artificial intelligence (AI), satellite technology, and the digital economy. He described these as key to preparing the younger generation for the future. "The future of Sarawak is there. Our policy is there. We must prepare our younger generation for a better future," he said [1].
At the May 16 event, Abang Johari outlined these priorities while urging GPS component parties to hold firm to their united front. His appeal reflected ongoing efforts to stabilize Sarawak’s political and economic position within Malaysia [2].
