KAPIT: Hundreds of residents gathered at the Kapit Civic Centre in a show of solidarity for Federal Works Minister and Kapit Member of Parliament, Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, following controversy over his recent remarks about a potential “political divorce”.
The rally was spearheaded by Malaysian Armed Forces Veterans Association (PVATM) Kapit Chairman and Kapit District Council (KDC) Deputy Chairman, Martin Bilun, who described the turnout as a reflection of unwavering local unity.
“The people of Kapit fully support Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi and Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg in defending Sarawak’s rights as enshrined under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63),” Martin said today (Feb 6).
He stressed Nanta’s distinguished political heritage as the grandson of the late Tun Datuk Patinggi Temenggong Jugah Barieng, one of Malaysia’s founding fathers, and son of veteran politician, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Datuk Amar Leonard Linggi Jugah.
Martin also condemned recent calls by Perak DAP Vice-Chairman, Dr Abdul Aziz Bari, for Nanta’s resignation from the federal Cabinet over his use of the word “divorce” in reference to Malaysia.
“Nanta is both Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) and Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) Secretary-General,” he opined.
“Calling for his removal is an attempt to silence a Sarawakian leader who is speaking up for Sarawak’s rights.”
Martin explained that Nanta’s remarks reflected growing frustration among Sarawakians over continuous political bickering, racial and religious provocations and attempts by certain quarters in Peninsular Malaysia to challenge Sarawak’s constitutional position.
“We are frustrated with politicians who exploit race and religion, creating division and suspicion within our multiracial society,” he stressed, adding that Sarawakians desire a peaceful, harmonious and prosperous Malaysia built on unity.
Community leader Penghulu James Sandak noted that the presence of grassroots leaders, GPS representatives, and non-governmental organisations demonstrated strong collective backing for Sarawak’s leadership.
The gathering was attended by Watson Awan Jalai, a political secretary to the Premier; KDC Chairman, Andy Lawrence; and several community leaders, including Temenggong Wasli Nor, Pemanca Pasang Tubak, Pemanca Wong Kie Ing, Pemanca Bunsu Geringgang, Penghulu Jenny Yu Si Geok, Penghulu Sia Shui Poh and Kapitan Ling Hang Pin.
