KUCHING: Despite occasional differences of opinion and emotional exchanges in Parliament, federal-state relations remain fundamentally strong, says Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali.
Speaking to the media today (Feb 10), the Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Law, MA63 and State-Federal Relations) acknowledged that challenges are a natural part of governance.
“Relationships are always challenging, isn’t it? Right now, the relationship between the federal and state governments are good.
“This is manifested by the relationship between our Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim,” she said, characterising the working relationship between federal and state governments as cooperative.
She acknowledged that differences exist but stressed that experienced leadership ensures these do not undermine the larger mission of serving the nation and state.
“Of course, there are differences of opinions. There are issues here and there. But at the end of the day, I think our leaders are prudent people. They are very experienced people,” she added.
When asked about strong emotions displayed by Members of Parliament both in and outside Parliament, she described such expressions as normal in political discourse.
“People have feelings, they express their views. It’s normal. We can be emotional about it,” she noted, adding that the true measure of leadership lies in the ability to navigate these complexities.
“But at the end of the day, what’s important is we put the interests of the country first, the interests of Sarawak first. That’s what leadership is about, to bring people together.”
She expressed particular confidence in the Premier’s ability to manage complex relationships and competing interests.
“Our leaders will navigate matters in the best possible way. We have that quality leadership, especially in our Premier. He will ensure that everything will be well and good for the state, for Sarawak, and for the nation as a whole,” she said.
