Kuching: Call for Focus on Development, Not Politics
In a bid to ensure that development remains the primary focus, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr. Sim Kui Hian has urged all parties to refrain from politicising the RM100 million allocated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for the repair and upgrade of dilapidated schools and clinics in Sarawak. This statement comes after Sarawak DAP chairman Chong Chieng Jen criticised the Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) for highlighting the issue in the press.
The Facts Behind the Allocation
Clarification from Deputy Premier Dr. Sim Kui Hian
Speaking to reporters after officiating the Ministry of Public Health, Housing and Local Government’s Integrity Day at Wisma Sabati, Dr. Sim clarified the situation. He emphasized that his comments regarding the RM100 million were straightforward and factual.
“When all of you (reporters) asked me about the RM100 million, I just stated the facts: we had not received it. Nothing more, nothing less,” Dr. Sim stated.
The Role of Public Works Department
Dr. Sim further noted that the funds had been channelled to the Public Works Department (PWD), acknowledging this as a positive development. He remarked,
“Finally, he’s (Chong) doing his job as an MP, which is his responsibility.”
Chong Chieng Jen’s Involvement
Chong’s Statement and Inquiry
On July 23, Chong, who serves as the Stampin MP, released a statement asserting that he had directly enquired with the Ministry of Finance (MoF) about the fund’s disbursement. He also discussed the matter in parliament the previous week.
Allocation Details
Chong confirmed that the funds were allocated as follows:
- RM50 million for repairing dilapidated schools
- RM50 million for upgrading clinics
These allocations, according to Chong, were confirmed to have been channelled to PWD Sarawak.
Dr. Sim’s Response to Politicisation
No Intention to Stir Controversy
Dr. Sim reiterated that his comments were not intended to incite any controversy or direct anyone to question the Prime Minister.
“I did not add anything else. I did not say, ‘Why don’t you go and ask Anwar?’ I never said any of this,” he clarified.
Call for Constructive Dialogue
Dr. Sim expressed that the Sarawak government had no issues with the Prime Minister and urged Chong not to create unnecessary problems for the sake of publicity.
Conclusion
Focus on Development
The RM100 million allocation for repairing and upgrading schools and clinics in Sarawak is a significant step towards improving the state’s infrastructure. It is crucial for political leaders and parties to focus on the constructive use of these funds rather than engaging in political disputes.
Dr. Sim’s call to avoid politicising the issue underscores the importance of collaboration and constructive dialogue in ensuring that the intended development projects are successfully implemented for the benefit of the community.