KUCHING: Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian has clarified that his recent remarks on Sarawakian talents working abroad were not intended to criticise or belittle Sarawakians who have chosen to pursue careers overseas.
Responding to media reports and online commentary on the issue, Dr Sim said Sarawak remains proud of all Sarawakians who have succeeded on the international stage through hard work, dedication and capability.
He explained that his comments were made in the context of Sarawak’s current stage of development, as the state continues on a strong growth trajectory and must place emphasis on developing and retaining talent for its own future needs.
“While Sarawak has produced many successful talents, we must also focus on ensuring that Sarawak itself has the capacity to nurture, attract and retain talent,” he said in a statement.
Dr Sim stressed that Sarawakians seeking opportunities abroad should not be viewed as a personal shortcoming, but rather as a reflection of the need for Sarawak to continue improving the quality of opportunities, professional pathways and the overall living environment.
“This is a challenge that leaders must address honestly and responsibly,” he added.
He said he has consistently highlighted, including in the State Legislative Assembly (DUN), the importance of engaging Sarawakians everywhere including those overseas as partners in Sarawak’s development and nation-building efforts.
According to Dr Sim, Sarawak is now at a critical stage of transformation and requires talent, experience, ideas and commitment more than ever.
The Sarawak government, he said, remains committed to strengthening the state’s economic structure and living environment to encourage talent to stay, while welcoming Sarawakians abroad to contribute in whatever capacity possible.
“No matter where you are in the world, Sarawak will always be your home. Your achievements matter, your experience matters, and everyone can play a role in the collective building of our homeland,” he said.
At an event last week, Dr Sim was quoted in a media report as saying that Sarawakians who chose not to return to their homeland to contribute to the state’s development were “not truly successful.”
