Minorities confident govt’s development plans will now include them

KUCHING – The federal government’s commitment to not marginalise minority communities, especially in Sabah and Sarawak, has given the group confidence that they are now included in the country’s development agenda.

This came following Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s assurance that the country’s minorities, including those in Sabah and Sarawak will not be marginalised by his administration, when delivering his mandate themed “Developing Malaysia Madani” here today.

Joy Saran Saro, 29, who is from the Lun Bawang ethnic group in Sarawak said the country’s minorities face the same issues and problems as faced by the main races, but these are seldom highlighted.

She said the commitment made by the prime minister was also seen as the start of a new chapter in terms of the federal government’s relationship with the country’s minority communities.

“In addition, I also hope that under the new government, more focus will be given to Sabah and Sarawak, especially in terms of infrastructure and basic needs.

“Together we have formed the Federation of Malaysia for 60 years, so what has yet to be fulfilled or implemented so far, must be achieved,” she said.

Accordingly, Anwar has requested Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof to take the lead in resolving problems that had previously affected the people in Sabah and Sarawak.

Anwar said Fadillah has been given complete trust to resolve all pending matters related to the Malaysia Agreement 1963 to ensure that Sabah and Sarawak peoples will be protected.

Meanwhile, Baxther Ryan Adrick, 26, who is from the Bisaya tribe, said the key principles and values ​​in Malaysia Madani that Anwar introduced today are expected to act as a guide in the unity government’s administration.

“The message delivered by the prime minister in his speech was uplifting and we hope that the good values ​​that are incorporated through this concept would serve as a guide for everyone in the government.

“It is hoped that should there be any future assistance or opportunity, they are more comprehensive and will benefit all citizens even if they are based far away in Sarawak and Sabah,” he said.

Madani is based on six pillars namely sustainability, prosperity, innovation, respect, trust and compassion. – Bernama, January 19, 2023