SIBU: Leaders must serve with sincere intentions and remain committed to helping the people, as leadership is a trust bestowed by God, says Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He stressed that every leader would ultimately be accountable for the responsibilities entrusted to them and should therefore carry out their duties with honesty, patience and integrity.
“When the time comes for me to step down, I want it to be clear that I have served the people and upheld the trust they placed in me,” he said when speaking at a Sarawak Day Townhall held here today (July 22).
Abang Johari said leadership was not about pursuing personal gain or worldly achievements, but about serving others and improving their lives.
Reflecting on his political journey, which began when he was 27 years old, he said he initially declined the opportunity to become a candidate because he felt he was too young.
However, he eventually accepted the responsibility following encouragement from his leaders and the advice of his mother, whom he credited for shaping his character and values.
“Politics has its ups and downs and is filled with challenges. That is why leaders must have patience and maintain sincere intentions throughout their journey,” he said.
Abang Johari also reminded the audience that worldly possessions and achievements would not accompany a person after death, adding that only good deeds and contributions to society would endure.
He urged leaders and the public alike to place the welfare of others above self-interest, noting that helping people and carrying out charitable works bring far greater rewards.
“The key is intention. If our intention is to help people, then our service will have meaning and value,” he added.
