Recognizing Exceptional Leadership and Vision
KUCHING, August 16, 2024 – Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has added another accolade to his illustrious career, receiving the Great ASEAN Distinguished Leadership Excellence Award on August 15. The prestigious honor was presented during the ASEAN Entrepreneur Awards 2024 Gala Dinner in Kuala Lumpur, recognizing his exceptional leadership and innovative initiatives that have propelled Sarawak ahead of other Malaysian states.
The Honor and Its Significance
The Great ASEAN Distinguished Leadership Excellence Award, bestowed by the KSI Strategic Institute for Asia Pacific and the ASEAN Economic Club, celebrates leaders who have made significant contributions to their region. Abang Johari’s receipt of this award underscores his dedication to Sarawak’s development, particularly through transformative initiatives that have established the state as a regional powerhouse.
The award was presented by Tan Sri Majid Khan, Chairman of the KSI Strategic Institute for Asia Pacific, alongside the institute’s President, Tan Sri Michael Yeoh. The recognition highlights the Premier’s continuous efforts to elevate Sarawak’s status on the global stage, particularly through sustainable development and innovative economic strategies.
A Humble Acknowledgment of Collective Efforts
In his acceptance speech, Abang Johari expressed his gratitude to the organizers and humbly attributed the award to the collective efforts of Sarawakians, his colleagues, and the civil service.
“This award is not a reflection of what I have done. I don’t know whether I deserve it. It is a collective effort of Sarawakians, my colleagues, as well as the civil service for providing me with the necessary input and direction to navigate Sarawak through the global challenges we face today,” said Abang Johari.
Sarawak: The Beating Heart of East ASEAN
Abang Johari emphasized Sarawak’s potential as a pivotal hub in East ASEAN, driven by its abundant natural resources and strategic initiatives. He highlighted the state’s commitment to becoming a regional leader in trade, investment, and connectivity, particularly through its focus on renewable energy.
“Sarawak has the vision as the beating heart of East ASEAN, reflecting the new spirit of progress and cooperation that this award symbolizes — not only for me but for the entire ASEAN region,” he added.
A Vision for the Future: PCDS 2030
At the core of Abang Johari’s leadership is the Sarawak Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), which aims to transform Sarawak into a developed, high-income state by focusing on three main pillars: economic prosperity, social inclusiveness, and sustainable environmental stability.
“This strategy is designed to transform Sarawak into a developed state with high income, where its people live in harmony and prosperity,” he stated.
Leading the Way in Global Energy Transformation
Under Abang Johari’s leadership, Sarawak has emerged as a leader in global energy transformation. The state’s emphasis on sustainability and green technology, including green hydrogen, has positioned Sarawak at the forefront of the renewable energy sector.
Datuk Seri Mohamed Iqbal Rawther, Deputy Chairman of the KSI Strategic Institute, lauded Abang Johari’s efforts, noting, “Under Abang Johari’s leadership, Sarawak has made significant progress, including positioning the state as a leader in global energy transformation by emphasizing sustainability and green technology.”
He further highlighted the Premier’s focus on education, encouraging universities and higher education institutions to develop the potential of Sarawak’s future generations.
A Bright Future Ahead
Abang Johari’s receipt of the Great ASEAN Distinguished Leadership Excellence Award is a testament to his visionary leadership and dedication to Sarawak’s development. As Sarawak continues to make strides in economic, social, and environmental sectors, the Premier’s influence is poised to guide the state toward a prosperous and sustainable future.
The award not only recognizes Abang Johari’s contributions but also serves as an inspiration for the entire ASEAN region, showcasing the power of collective effort and visionary leadership in achieving remarkable progress.