KUCHING: Sarawak’s ties with the Federal Government were reaffirmed during the State Gawai Dinner, with the Premier highlighting a recent joint declaration on gas distribution and federal-state cooperation as a step forward in mutual understanding.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the declaration reflects a shared commitment to resolving outstanding matters and strengthening federalism in Malaysia.
“In the spirit of federalism and mutual understanding, many issues have been resolved.
“I thank the Prime Minister for this joint declaration,” he said tonight during the State Gawai Dinner at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK).
The joint declaration recognises Petroleum Sarawak Bhd (PETROS) as the sole aggregator for natural gas in Sarawak and affirms the coexistence of both federal and state laws in managing energy resources.
Abang Johari expressed appreciation to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi for attending the dinner, calling their presence a sign of strong federal-state relations.
“We are grateful to the Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, and Federal Cabinet members for being here. Their attendance shows the strength of our relationship,” he said.
He also emphasised the cultural importance of Gawai, noting that such events strengthen unity and foster a collective national identity.
“These cultural programmes foster unity and motivate us to work harder for the good of Malaysia, and especially for Sarawak,” he added.
He concluded by affirming that Sarawak’s progress contributes to the nation’s overall prosperity.
“If Sarawak prospers, Malaysia prospers. That is the spirit we carry forward,” he said.
