KUCHING: Datuk Abdullah Saidol has described the recent defamatory remarks aimed at Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari as “politically motivated”.
The Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and UKAS) suggested that the writer behind these defamatory remarks might have been paid to undermine the state government’s efforts.
He was alluding to several viral derogatory articles on Abang Johari’s leadership and Sarawak’s development efforts
“We do not take it too seriously because most of the facts in that person’s writing are, if I could describe it, shallow and without any sort of substance.
“I do believe the reason why it happened is that some people have self-interest, as in they want to do something in Sarawak, and we do not entertain this because it does not bring any benefit to the state, let alone Malaysia.
“That being said, most of the facts were baseless, narrow-minded and ill-intended,” he told reporters at an event here last night (June 21).
Abdullah also called for actions against such writers or journalists, suggesting they should not be allowed to come to Sarawak.
“Because some of the things this person said in the writing will threaten the friendship and mutual understanding between the state and federal government, and also between Sarawakians and our friends in Peninsular Malaysia” he added.
He also assured the state’s actions are in line with its rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and do not compromise the country’s stability.
“We are not selfish when it comes to fighting for our rights and interest, especially with regards to the financial interest.
“As a matter of fact, the state government under the leadership of Abang Johari is still caring for the country, with the example that we are lenient and being cooperative to ensure that the federal government was formed back in 2022.
“Because if the federal government is not functioning administratively, then the country would be fully managed, especially when it comes to the welfare of the people,” he said.
