KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi delivered a stirring tribute to Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, hailing his leadership as a blend of vision, integrity, and humanity that continues to define Sarawak’s steady rise as a progressive and compassionate state.
At the Lan Berambeh Anak Sarawak (LBAS) 2025 Dinner Reception for Sarawakians, Nanta, who is the Federal Minister of Works and the Organising Chairperson of LBAS 2025, said the Premier’s governance transcends conventional development metrics, intertwining innovation and infrastructure with empathy and moral strength.
“Our Premier does not only emphasise physical development, but also gives attention to human development; aspects of morality, character, humanity and integrity.
“He constantly reminds us that true progress is not measured by infrastructure and economy alone, but also by empathy, ethics and responsibility towards one another,” Nanta said in his speech before more than 6,500 Sarawakians at the LBAS 2025 Dinner Reception held at the Malaysia International Trade & Exhibition Centre (MITEC), Kuala Lumpur, on Saturday night.
Additionally, Nanta likened Abang Johari’s approach to Sarawak’s progress to kek lapis Sarawak, the state’s famous layered cake, each tier representing a deliberate, thoughtful phase of development.
“Just like kek lapis Sarawak, built layer upon layer and rich in flavour, our Premier’s leadership has built Sarawak’s achievements one by one.
“It starts from a solid foundation, then adds layers of innovation, social advancement, economic strength, and community empowerment,” he said.
Nanta extended the metaphor with a personal touch, saying the Premier’s style mirrors the care and creativity required to assemble the perfect kek lapis.
“Assembling a kek lapis requires patience and creativity to make it appealing and meaningful, just like his leadership.
“It’s not merely about assembling grand projects, but about blending humanity, integrity, unity and compassion.
“Through this, Sarawak does not only achieve growth in numbers and buildings, but leaves behind a legacy of a united, self-reliant and dignified society,” Nanta said.
In one of the night’s most heartfelt moments, Nanta assured the Premier of the people’s steadfast loyalty, borrowing the iconic anthem line with a humorous nod to football fans in the audience.
“The steps of Abang Jo are full of resolve, building the state tirelessly. You will never walk alone, Sir. We are with you,” he assured.
He then added a lighthearted disclaimer regarding the borrowed anthem line.
“I may not be a Liverpool fan, I support Kuching City Football Club, but that phrase, ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ truly applies to you,” he said.
In conclusion, Nanta reflected that Abang Johari’s legacy lies not only in skyscrapers, bridges and economic milestones, but also in the enduring values he instilled: empathy, unity and integrity.
“It is this philosophy of leadership that makes Sarawak not just developed, but noble and compassionate,” he said.
