Jump to content

Abang Abdul Rahman Johari

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari
Abang Openg
Abang Johari in 2024
1st Premier of Sarawak
(6th Chief Minister until 1 March 2022)
Assumed office
13 January 2017
GovernorAbdul Taib Mahmud
Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar
Deputy
Preceded byAdenan Satem
1st Chairman of Gabungan Parti Sarawak
Assumed office
12 June 2018
DeputyDouglas Uggah Embas
Awang Tengah Ali Hasan
Secretary-GeneralAlexander Nanta Linggi
Preceded byPosition established
6th President of Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu
Assumed office
13 January 2017
DeputyDouglas Uggah Embas
Awang Tengah Ali Hasan
Preceded byAdenan Satem
Ministerial roles (Sarawak)
1984–1987Assistant Minister of Regional Development and Community Development
1987–2000Minister of Industrial Development
2000–2004Minister of Tourism
2004–2009Minister of Housing
2009–2011Minister of Housing and Urbanisation
2011–2016Minister of Tourism
2016–2017Deputy Chief Minister
2016–2017Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture
2016–2017Minister of Housing and Urbanisation
2017–2021Minister of Finance and Economic Planning
2017–2021Minister of Urban Development and Resources
2022–Minister for Finance and New Economy
2022–Minister for Natural Resources and Urban Development
Personal details
Born (1950-08-04) 4 August 1950 (age 74)
Limbang, Crown Colony of Sarawak (now Sarawak, Malaysia)
CitizenshipMalaysian
Political partyParti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (since 1977)
Other political
affiliations
Spouse
Juma'ani Tuanku Bujang
(m. 1977)
RelationsDatu Patinggi Ali (great-great-grandfather)
Tuanku Bujang Tuanku Othman (father-in-law)
Children2
ParentAbang Openg Abang Sapiee (father)
Alma materHenley College, Brunel University (MBA)[1]
OccupationPolitician
Websitepremier.sarawak.gov.my

Tan Sri Datuk Patinggi Dr. Haji Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Abang Openg (born 4 August 1950),[2] popularly known as Abang Jo or Abang Johari,[3] is a Malaysian politician who is currently serving as the head of government of Sarawak since 2017.[4] He has been Member of the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (MLA) for Gedong since 2021, having previously being the MLA for Satok from 1981 to 2021.[5] He is the son of the first Yang di-Pertua Negeri (Governor) of Sarawak, Abang Openg Abang Sapiee.

Abang Johari took over as the chief minister (later known as premier) following the death of his predecessor Adenan Satem in January 2017.[6] He is a member and the current president of Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), a component party of state ruling Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) coalition.[7] He is also the first chairman of GPS since its formation in June 2018 after its split from Barisan Nasional (BN).[8][9]

Early life and education

[edit]

Abang Johari was born in Limbang on 6 August 1949,[10] to Abang Openg Abang Sapiee and Dayang Masniah Abdul Rahman. He is the youngest of ten siblings.[10] His father, Abang Openg, traced his ancestry back to Kuching, with Abang Sapiee Abang Omar as his father. Abang Johari's second great-grandfather was Datu Patinggi Haji Abdul Gapor, the former governor of Sarawak preceding James Brooke's era. Moreover, Abang Johari was the fourth-generation descendant of Datu Patinggi Ali and a direct descendant of Raja Jarum.[11]

In 1963, Abang Openg was appointed as the first Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sarawak. He was recognised as one of the local prominent figures active in several Sarawak independence movements.[12]

Abang Johari's education began at Merpati Jepang Primary School, Kuching. He later pursued his secondary education at St Thomas's Anglican Secondary School starting at form 1 in 1962 till form 5 in 1967; after which he transferred to St. Joseph's Secondary School, Kuching, a La Sallian Catholic school.[13][14] In 1969, Abang Johari's father died when he was 19 years old.

Early career

[edit]

After finishing school, Abang Johari then worked with Malaysia Airlines as an executive officer.[1] He earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from Henley College, Brunel University.[10][15]

Political career

[edit]

In the early 1970s, Sarawak was home to several active youth organisations, including the Federation of Sarawak Malay Youth Clubs, the Sarawak Youth Council, and the Bidayuh Youth Club.[15] In 1972, leaders from these organisations convened and agreed to merge, forming the Sarawak United National Youth Organisation (SABERKAS). During this period, Abang Johari was actively involved in SABERKAS. [15] At the same time, he aligned himself with Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), a component of the ruling Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition at both federal and state levels. Abang Johari began his political career in 1977 when he was appointed as the youth chief of PBB at the age of 27.[16]

In 1981, the incumbent Member of Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (MLA) for Satok, Abang Abu Bakar Abang Mustapha, resigned, necessitating a by-election. Although initially reluctant to contest, Abang Johari declined an offer from Abdul Rahman Ya'kub, then Chief Minister, to run for the vacant seat.[17] Following advice from his mother to respect the elders,[17] he eventually accepted the offer and won the seat in the by-election, marking his formal entry into the state legislative assembly.[17] His political trajectory continued to ascend in 1982 when he was appointed as the principal political secretary to Chief Minister Abdul Taib Mahmud.

Ministerial career

[edit]

Following his re-election in the 1983 state election, Abang Johari advanced in his political career. A year later, he became the Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Community Development.[18]

After retaining his seat in the 1987 state election, Abang Johari was promoted to a full ministerial position and joined the cabinet under Abdul Taib as the Minister of Industrial Development.[18]

In 2000, he expanded his portfolio, becoming the Minister of Tourism. Despite electoral challenges in 2001, he successfully defended his seat.[18]

In 2004, a cabinet reshuffle led to Abang Johari's appointment as Minister of Housing, a position he held while winning the 2006 state election.[18]

In 2009, he retained his ministerial position while also taking on urbanization responsibilities, becoming the Minister of Housing and Urbanization until 2011.[18]

Abang Johari continued his political journey after winning his seat in the 2011 state election, once again becoming Minister of Tourism under Abdul Taib's leadership.[18]

On 12 February 2014, Abdul Taib announced his resignation as chief minister after approximately 33 years in office.[19] Following this announcement, Abang Johari emerged as a potential candidate to succeed Abdul Taib. Minister of Special Duties Adenan Satem and Minister of Resource Planning and Environment Awang Tengah Ali Hasan were also considered as contenders for the position.[19] Abdul Taib, however, nominated Adenan as his successor to Governor Abang Muhammad Salahuddin Abang Barieng.[19] Consequently, Adenan was appointed as the chief minister and assumed office on 28 February 2014.[20] Despite the leadership transition, Adenan retained the existing cabinet line-up established by his predecessor. He opted to reshuffle the cabinet only after the state election.[21] Notably, Adenan and Abang Johari shared a longstanding connection, having known each other since childhood as they hailed from the same village.[22]

Abang Johari successfully retained his seat following BN's significant victory in the 2016 state election.[23] Adenan promoted Abang Johari to the position of deputy chief minister.[24] In this role, he served alongside Douglas Uggah Embas and James Jemut Masing.[24] Additionally, Abang Johari was entrusted with two cabinet positions: Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, and Minister of Housing and Urbanisation.[25]

Just six months after the state election, Adenan died due to a heart attack on 11 January 2017.[26] His death marked the first occurrence of a serving chief minister's demise in Sarawak. In the wake of Adenan's death, Abang Johari's name emerged as a potential successor, given his position as one of the ruling party's deputy presidents, alongside Douglas Uggah Embas and Awang Tengah Ali Hasan.[27] However, out of respect for the mourning period following Adenan's death, the party chose to postpone discussions on selecting his successor.[28] Abang Johari emphasised the impropriety of debating Adenan's successor while the state was mourning his loss.[22] Throughout the week, Adenan's death was mourned by many, and many leaders attended his funeral in Kuching.[29]

Head of government of Sarawak (2017–present)

[edit]
Abang Johari with Governor Abdul Taib Mahmud in Kuching on 8 September 2017 during the governor's birthday parade

Abang Johari assumed office as the successor to Adenan after being appointed by Governor Abdul Taib Mahmud on 13 January 2017.[9][8][30] Despite the recent passing of Adenan, Abang Johari took his time in making statements to honour his predecessor, respecting the enduring legacy Adenan left in the hearts of Sarawakians.[31][32] Following the mourning period, Abang Johari expressed his intention to maintain continuity by retaining much of the previous cabinet lineup from Adenan's administration.[33] In May, nearly five months after taking office, Abang Johari named Awang Tengah Ali Hasan as the deputy chief minister – a post that had been vacant after he was appointed chief minister.[34]

Political positions

[edit]

Education

[edit]

The educational initiatives undertaken by Abang Johari's administration in Sarawak aimed to bolster the education sector through various strategies by enhancing opportunities and standards across the state. One notable aspect of these efforts is the support extended to Chinese private schools, including the commitment to recognise the Unified Examinations Certificate (UEC)[35] and the allocation of financial assistance totaling RM10 million annually.[36][37]

The government under Abang Johari has adopted a pragmatic approach, recognising the federal government's jurisdiction over education while pursuing strategies to improve educational outcomes within Sarawak. This includes the implementation of an international curriculum, which integrates English alongside Bahasa Melayu to equip students with global competencies. The curriculum draws from the Cambridge syllabus and has facilitated the establishment of five international schools across Sarawak. Scholarships have also been made available to ensure inclusivity and access to quality education for all students.[38]

In 2022, Abang Johari announced plans for free tertiary education in state-owned institutions, aiming for implementation by 2025 or 2026.[39] According to him, this initiative reflects a commitment to equitable access to higher education and underscores the government's dedication to investing in the future of Sarawak's youth. Funding has been allocated for teacher training, particularly focusing on enhancing proficiency in teaching Science and Mathematics in English.

Abang Johari currently holds the position of pro-chancellor at three prominent universities: Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS),[40] Swinburne University of Technology of Sarawak,[41] and University of Technology Sarawak (UTS).[42]

Religious and racial affairs

[edit]

Your religion is your religion. My religion is my religion. Whatever you believe or do is between you and God.

—Abang Johari, 24 December 2018.[43]

In March 2017, Abang Johari remained adamant in his opposition to the state's implementation of the hudud law, saying that he had the same views as his predecessor Adenan.[44] According to him, the state government is concerned that the hudud bill's penalties are "discriminatory between Muslims and non-Muslims".[44]

Under Abang Johari's leadership, the state government formed the Other Religious Affairs Unit (UNIFOR) in April 2017 to aid all religions and protect the interests and welfare of Sarawak's non-Muslims.[45] The state government has set aside a particular fund to help other religions with things like house of worship construction, maintenance, and upgrades through UNIFOR.[46][47] Sarawak is the only state in Malaysia that can channel funds to support other religions, hence the founding of this unit made history.[48] Deputy Chief Minister Douglas Uggah Embas is in charge of UNIFOR.[49]

Abang Johari has always reminded the non-Muslims in Sarawak that they are allowed to use the word "Allah" at any time,[50][51] saying that "it's not human beings who judge themselves as pious but it is God".[52]

Abang Johari has also consistently prioritised the interests of all races in Sarawak.[53] After many Dayak Cultural Foundation (DCF) development projects[54] and the new building of the Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA)[55] were approved during his administration, the Wisma Melayu Sarawak building is indicative of the state government's willingness to give amenities to all races.[56]

Land rights

[edit]

In April 2017, Abang Johari said that the state government would work to ensure that land owned by the Malay community in the state's urban centres remained in the hands of the Malay community and their descendants.[57] In August 2020, Abang Johari announced that the state government acknowledged and defended the people's rights to Native Customary Rights (NCR) Land. The Sarawak Native Customary Rights Land Survey Programme was launched by Abang Johari and consists of two stages: perimeter measuring under Section 6 of the state land code and individual lot measurement under Section 18 of the same code.

BN's loss in GE14

[edit]

In the 2018 federal election, Barisan Nasional (BN) suffered a crushing defeat, losing a large number of seats.[58] Despite this, BN did not lose at the state level in Sarawak, despite losing a number of parliamentary seats. Following the devastating loss, the coalition's four component parties, Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS), Sarawak United Peoples' Party (SUPP), and Progressive Democratic Party (PDP),[59][60] all of which operate solely in Sarawak, announced their departure from the coalition on 12 June 2018,[61] led by Abang Johari.

Establishment of GPS

[edit]

After leaving BN, Abang Johari then formed a new coalition of the four local political parties known as Gabungan Parti Sarawak or abbreviated as GPS, thus becoming its chairman.[62]

The coalition focuses on Sarawak's interests and rights based on the Malaysia Agreement (MA63) and remain an opposition at the Pakatan Harapan (PH) federal government.[61] On 23 August 2018, Abang Johari announced that GPS has been registered and is awaiting the issuance of the official letter from the Registrar of Societies.[63] The coalition was finally legalised on 19 November 2018.[64][65]

2020 federal political crisis

[edit]

Following the 2020 Malaysian political crisis which saw the PH federal government lose its majority in the Dewan Rakyat, GPS entered into an agreement by declaring support for the new government coalition, Perikatan Nasional (PN), led by Muhyiddin Yassin. Abang Johari, however, maintained that the agreement will not see GPS become a member of PN, but will remain as a partner instead for the sake of political stability.[66][67] Armed with the support of 18 MPs from GPS and several other MPs, Muhyiddin was appointed as the eighth Prime Minister by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.[68][69]

By mid-2021, the political crisis at the federal level had worsened when several MPs from UMNO, one of the components of Barisan Nasional, withdrew support for Muhyiddin.[70][71][72] Even so, GPS under Abang Johari remained steadfast in its stance to continue supporting the Muhyiddin-led federal government,[73] saying that "now is not the time for politicking but rather for uniting to face the pandemic crisis".[74]

The political crisis culminated in August 2021 when Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin resigned after losing majority.[75] Following the event, Deputy Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob was touted and nominated to replace Muhyiddin.[76][77] GPS has unanimously supported Ismail Sabri,[78] and Ismail Sabri was eventually appointed as the ninth Prime Minister on 20 August 2021.[79]

Healthcare

[edit]

Abang Johari has outlined plans to enhance healthcare within the state in accordance with the Malaysia Agreement (MA63). He aimed to elevate the standard of healthcare in Sarawak, focusing on improving access to medical services, particularly in rural areas by 2030. To achieve this, he proposed to increase the state's autonomy in healthcare decision-making, allowing the state to tailor solutions to its specific needs. One key initiative involves building more healthcare facilities in remote areas and expanding training programs for medical personnel to address shortages in these regions. A significant aspect of the plan is the establishment of a specialised medical hub in Kota Samarahan, which will centralise critical medical services. Additionally, the construction of infrastructure like the Sarawak Tropical Infectious Disease Research Centre and a cancer centre will address pressing healthcare challenges. Funding for these projects will be facilitated by the Development Bank of Sarawak (DBOS).

COVID-19 pandemic

[edit]

COVID-19 officially spread throughout Sarawak in March 2020.[80] In response, Abang Johari announced a two-week stay home order on everyone entering the state as part of measures to prevent the escalation of the disease.[81] Meanwhile, Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin announced the implementation the movement control order (MCO).[82] MCO started nationwide including Sarawak from 18 March 2020 and was extended in various stages until June 2021.[83][84][85][86][87] The federal government then introduced a four-phase National Recovery Plan (NRP) to help the nation emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic fallout, which also includes Sarawak.[88] As of January 2022, Sarawak is now in the last phase of NRP.[89] Sarawak has been praised by Director General of Health Noor Hisham Abdullah and become an example to other states in Malaysia for successfully curbing the spread of COVID-19.[90]

In response to the various impacts of COVID-19, more than RM5.6 billion was spent by the Abang Johari-led state government to implement a few aid packages to help the people affected by COVID-19 known as Bantuan Khas Sarawakku Sayang (BKSS).[91] In almost two years, a total of eight BKSS packages have been announced by the chief minister involving more than 30 initiatives.[91]

In January 2021, a big wave of COVID-19 has hit Sarawak.[92] Abang Johari then has announced that the state will begin a vaccination programme to combat the rise in COVID-19 infections.[93] In February 2021, he received his first dose of the Pfizer–BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine, publicly taking the vaccine on live television.[94] He returned for his second dose in March 2021.[95]

Sarawak has become one of Malaysia's fastest states in terms of vaccinating its citizens,[96] with COVID-19 cases in the state dropping in July 2021.[97] However, with the emergence of the Delta variant,[98] Sarawak saw a significant spike in cases, which peaked in mid-September 2021.[99] Abang Johari then announced that the state government will enhance vaccination, particularly booster doses.[100][101] Infections in the state have reduced dramatically since early November 2021, following the massive booster doses vaccination.[102] The state's vaccination programme has fully inoculated over 75.2% of the population and 91.7% of adults as of 8 January 2022.[103]

Economic affairs

[edit]

Abang Johari is well known for his digital economy initiatives and efforts for Sarawak.[104][105] Shortly after assuming office, he established state's digital economy plan, known as "Sarawak Digital Economy Strategy 2018–2022", with the goal of transforming the state's economy through digital transformation to attain high-income status and become a developed state by 2030.[104][105]

In this digital economy plan, 47 strategic plans were given in eight economic sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and smart city.[105] The digital health, e-commerce, and digital government sectors, as well as social sports, arts, and culture, are among the other sectors.[104][105]

Under Abang Johari's leadership, a regulatory body and multimedia authority for Sarawak, known as Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA), has been established in 2017 to spearhead its digital economy including the development of digital infrastructure, cyber security, talent development, e-commerce, research and development in digital technology, digital innovation and entrepreneurship and digital government in the state.[106][105]

Development Bank of Sarawak (DBOS) was also established by Abang Johari with the goal of financing infrastructure projects relating to the Internet, transportation systems, renewable energy sector development projects, the oil and gas industry, healthcare, and modern agriculture.[107][104] It became a new source of funding for state development projects, altering the state government's financial model.[108][104]

Restoration of Sarawak's rights

[edit]

According to Abang Johari, the establishment GPS was inspired by the spirit sparked by his predecessor Adenan in fighting for the rights of Sarawak as enshrined in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).[104] Abang Johari also vowed to continue the legacy of Adenan's struggle to claim all Sarawak's rights that have been eroded.[109][104]

In September 2021, Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob pledged to look into issues relating to Sarawak including Sabah via the Special Council on MA63, with negotiations being chaired by the prime minister, joined by Abang Johari as Sarawak's chief minister and Hajiji Noor as Sabah's chief minister, as well as eight federal ministers.[110] One month later, the federal government announced a bill to be tabled in the coming Parliament sitting after the Special Council on MA63 agreed to Articles 1(2) and 160(2) of the Federal Constitution to restore Sabah and Sarawak as equal partners to Peninsular Malaysia. The same meeting also saw the council agree to empower both the Sabah and Sarawak governments to issue deep fishing licences as opposed to the federal government currently.[111] The amendments were tabled on 3 November 2021, consisting of four changes, being restoring Sabah and Sarawak as "territories", defining Malaysia Day as the day when Sabah and Sarawak joined and changes to the definition of the Federation, and defining who are natives of Sabah and Sarawak.[112] On 14 December 2021, the proposed amendment was passed in the Parliament unanimously.[113] According to Abang Johari, the approval of the bill is part of the previous efforts of GPS to defend the rights as in MA63 in accordance with the law.[114] He said that the restoration of Sarawak's status in MA63 was a key factor in GPS's victory in the 2021 state election.[115]

Oil and gas rights

[edit]

In June 2017, Abang Johari announced that Sarawak will establish a state-owned oil and gas exploration company as well as the petroleum company would be 100% owned by the state and will work with PETRONAS on an equal basis.[116][117][118] It was eventually formed on 7 August 2017 and known as Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (PETROS).[119] The Sarawak government aimed to have PETROS in operation by the first quarter of 2018[120] and become an active player in the oil and gas industry by 2020.[121]

In July 2017, the government of Sarawak under Abang Johari sent a legal team to the United Kingdom to search for additional supporting documents regarding the Sarawak's rights in the MA63. Among them are Sarawak (Alteration of Boundaries) Order 1954 by the Queen in Council, which stated that Sarawak boundary covers way beyond the three nautical miles.[122][123] Four months later, Sarawak has formed a special task force to negotiate with PETRONAS regarding the return of Sarawak oil and gas rights. The state was unwilling to resort to court action to nullify the Territorial Sea Act and PETRONAS dominance on Sarawak waters so as to preserve the good relationship between the federal and state government.[124]

In February 2018, Abang Johari questioned the validity of the 1974 Petroleum Development Act. This was because the Act was passed during the Emergency Proclamation period from 1969 to 2011. The Emergency Proclamation was abolished in 2011. This raises questions that whether the Petroleum Development Act would cease to become effective after 2011. He also stated that the Petroleum Development Act does not exclude laws such as Sarawak Oil Mining Ordinance 1958 which stated that only Sarawak has the right to issue mining licenses for oil production.[122] In April 2018, the chief minister also announced that under Oil Mining Ordinance 1958 and Gas Distribution Ordinance 2016, PETRONAS would need to apply mining license from PETROS to operate in Sarawak waters by July 2018.[125] Abang Johari also said that under the Item 2(c) of the State List, Ninth Schedule of the Federal Constitution, PETROS is able to exercise its rights on Sarawak waters. PETRONAS had welcomed PETROS into the oil and gas mining scene as long as PETROS acted within the framework of Malaysian Petroleum Development Act, 1974.[126] However, the opposition politicians in Sarawak cast doubts on whether Sarawak has truly regained its oil and gas rights without making any amendments to the existing laws in the country.[127] In April 2018, the opposition coalition, Pakatan Harapan offered a 20% oil royalty deal for Sarawak government if the former wins the federal power in the 2018 general election,[128] however, Sarawak refused to sign it because it has no legal standing.[129]

After the elections, Malaysian federal government changed hands to Pakatan Harapan. On 22 May 2018, PETRONAS responded to Sarawak state attorney-general that it disagrees that PETRONAS need to apply license from PETROS to operate in Sarawak waters.[130] On 4 June 2018, PETRONAS filed a suit in the Federal Court of Malaysia in order to assert its position as the exclusive owner of Malaysian oil resources (including Sarawak) and the 1974 Petroleum Development Act is still valid.[131] On 22 June 2018, the federal court of Malaysia denied PETRONAS application to start legal proceedings against Sarawak because the case is not within the jurisdiction of the federal court.[132] On 10 July 2018, Sarawak state assembly passed the Oil Mining (Amendment) Bill (2018) in order to regulate oil and gas activities in the state. All oil and gas companies operating in Sarawak waters would be given grace period until the end of 2019 to comply with Oil Mining Ordinance (OMO) 1958.[133]

Since 1 January 2019, Sarawak enforced 5% sales on all petroleum products.[134] Initially, PETRONAS was given dateline until end of September 2019 to pay the sales tax.[135] After that, PETRONAS was given until end of October 2019 to pay the sales tax.[136] In September 2019, Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad stated that payment of 20% oil royalty is not possible for Sabah and Sarawak because it may compromise financial status of PETRONAS.[137] On 21 November 2019, the Sarawak government filed a suit against PETRONAS for not paying the 5% sales tax.[138]

In February 2020, PETROS took full control of natural gas supply, sales, and distribution network in the state from PETRONAS.[139] In March 2020, high court ruled that Sarawak has the power to impose sales tax on PETRONAS.[140] On 8 May 2020, PETRONAS agreed to pay RM 2 billion in petroleum products sales tax to Sarawak with a condition that the tax will be lowered on a staggered basis in the future. Besides, both parties also agreed that the Petroleum Development Act 1974 is valid with PETRONAS as the sole regulator of oil and gas industry in Malaysia.[141] In October 2020, Sarawak government issued mining leases in Miri and Marudi to PETROS for onshore oil and gas mining.[142] In year 2020, PETROS started to distribute liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to 1,500 business and 2,500 households in Miri and Bintulu.[143] In December 2020, PETROS launched its own brand of LPG gas cylinder.[144]

2021 state election

[edit]

As the previous state legislative assembly first sat on 7 June 2016, it was originally set to be dissolved automatically on 7 June 2021. However, the 2021 state emergency declaration, preceded by a federal 2021 state of emergency declaration nationwide, arising from the federal political crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic, suspended the automatic dissolution of the legislature until the proposed end of the emergency duration on 2 February 2022.[145][146] On 3 November 2021, Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah had consented to lift the state of emergency thus the state legislative assembly dissolved automatically and the state election must be held within 60 days after to elect a new state government,[147] and an election called for 18 December.

From Satok to Gedong

[edit]

The election has seen the nomination of Abang Johari to contest the constituency seat of Gedong after its incumbent decided to not running for re-election. As a result, he had to leave his previous seat in Satok, which he had held for nearly 40 years. According to Abang Johari, he wants to serve in rural areas before he retires.

Aftermath

[edit]

The election resulted in GPS winning an overwhelming landslide, gaining 76 out of 82 seats and a supermajority over the legislature.[148] With such victory, political observers predict that GPS will continue to wield power in determining which national party will form the federal government after the 15th general election, while opposition parties such as Democratic Action Party (DAP) and People's Justice Party (PKR) will see their influence erode.

Premier (2022–present)

[edit]

After a state constitutional amendment was successfully passed on 15 February 2022, Abang Johari's position as Chief Minister was changed to Premier. The constitutional amendment was published in the Gazette and went into force on 1 March.[149]

Personal life

[edit]

Abang Johari married Juma'ani Tuanku Bujang on 26 February 1977.[150] Juma'ani's father, Tuanku Bujang Tuanku Othman was the second Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sarawak.[151] The couple have a son and a daughter; Abang Abdillah Izzarim and Dayang Norjihan.[150]

On 7 March 2022, Abang Johari announced that he had tested positive for COVID-19.[152]

Election results

[edit]
Sarawak State Legislative Assembly[153][154][155]
Year Constituency Candidate Votes Pct Opponent(s) Votes Pct Ballots cast Majority Turnout
1981 N06 Satok Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Abang Openg (PBB)[note 1] N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
1983 Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Abang Openg (PBB) N/A 86.20% Abang Ariffin Abang Sebli (BERSATU) N/A 13.80% N/A N/A N/A
1987 Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Abang Openg (PBB) N/A 69.62% Wan Ali Tengku Madhi (PERMAS) N/A 29.78% N/A N/A N/A
N/A (BERSATU) N/A 0.60%
1991 Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Abang Openg (PBB) 5,550 84.37% Faisal Othman (PERMAS) 1,028 15.63% 6,578 4,522 62.50%
1996 Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Abang Openg (PBB) 6,628 89.13% Sharkawi Faisal Othman (IND) 808 10.87% 7,436 5,820 60.91%
2001 Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Abang Openg (PBB) 4,830 71.02% Zulrusdi Mohamad Hol (PKR) 1,971 28.98% 6,801 2,859 63.01%
2006 N08 Satok Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Abang Openg (PBB) 4,222 74.78% Mohamad Jolhi (PKR) 1,424 25.22% 5,646 2,798 53.88%
2011 Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Abang Openg (PBB) 4,691 71.27% Ahmad Nazib Johari (PKR) 1,891 28.73% 6,582 2,800 64.39%
2016 Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Abang Openg (PBB) 6,854 79.12% Mohammad Salleh Shawkatali (PKR) 1,809 20.88% 8,663 5,045 64.97%
2021 N26 Gedong Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Abang Openg (PBB) 4,310 81.88% Mohamad Sofian Fariz Sharbini (PSB) 703 13.35% 5,264 3,607 73.05%
Kamal Bujang (AMANAH) 94 1.79%
Tomson Ango (PBK) 157 2.98%

Honours

[edit]

Honours of Malaysia

[edit]

Foreign honours

[edit]

Honorary degrees

[edit]

Notes

[edit]
  1. ^ This election is not a Sarawak state election. Instead it was a by-election for the Satok constituency. It was held following the resignation of its incumbent Abang Abu Bakar Abang Mustapha.[156]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b Sulok Tawie (13 January 2017). "Abang Johari is Sarawak's new chief minister". Malay Mail. Retrieved 3 November 2021.
  2. ^ "Datuk Amar Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Abang Haji Openg". Dewan Undangan Negeri Sarawak. Retrieved 13 January 2017.
  3. ^ Stanley Bye Kadam-Kiai (21 May 2016). "On the Iban and the Sarawak State Cabinet". Sarawak Voice. Archived from the original on 3 November 2021. Retrieved 3 November 2021. ...the appointment of Abang Johari, or Abang Jo, as he is affectionately known...
  4. ^ "New Sarawak Chief Minister Abang Johari sworn in". Bernama. The Straits Times. 13 January 2017. Retrieved 3 November 2021.
  5. ^ "Abang Johari appointed S'wak CM". Malaysiakini. 13 January 2017. Retrieved 3 November 2021. ...the nine-term Satok assemblyperson...
  6. ^ "Sarawak Chief Minister Tan Sri Adenan Satem dies". The Edge Markets. 11 January 2017. Retrieved 3 November 2021.
  7. ^ "Abang Johari reserves comment on who GPS wants to become PM". The Sun Daily. 18 August 2021. Retrieved 3 November 2021. ...Abang Johari who is the president of Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB)...
  8. ^ a b "Abang Johari Ketua Menteri baharu Sarawak". BH Online. Berita Harian. 13 January 2017. Retrieved 13 January 2017.
  9. ^ a b "Abang Johari to be sworn in as Sarawak's sixth Chief Minister". New Straits Times. 13 January 2017. Retrieved 13 January 2017.
  10. ^ a b c d e "Chief Minister's Biography". Official Website Office of the Chief Minister of Sarawak. 29 July 2019. Archived from the original on 31 July 2019. Retrieved 31 July 2019.
  11. ^ Chon, Ho Ah (16 November 1992). Tun Haji Openg bin Abang Spi'ee S.M.N., P.N.B.S., O.B.E. – First Malaysian Governor of Sarawak (PDF). Kuching, Sarawak: See Hua Daily News. p. iv.
  12. ^ "Tun Openg dalam kenangan, selepas 51 tahun permergiannya" (in Malay). Suara Sarawak. 29 March 2020. Retrieved 3 November 2021.
  13. ^ "Bio: New Sarawak Chief Minister Abang Johari Openg | New Straits Times".
  14. ^ Bong, Karen (2 November 2021). "Abang Jo: St Joseph school always holds a special place in my heart". Dayak Daily. Retrieved 17 March 2021.
  15. ^ a b c Roosfa Hashim (4 August 2020). "Abang Johari terus berjuang untuk Sarawak" (in Malay). Sarawak Voice. Retrieved 5 November 2021.
  16. ^ Lian Cheng (14 January 2017). "Abang Johari sworn in as sixth CM". The Borneo Post. Retrieved 3 November 2021. ...Abang Johari has been involved in politics since 1977...
  17. ^ a b c "URDA to get another RM1.5 bln allocation to develop Upper Rajang – CM". Bernama. The Borneo Post. 5 October 2020. Retrieved 5 November 2021.
  18. ^ a b c d e f Saibi Gi (23 April 2017). "Hanya mahu berkhidmat" [Just want to serve] (in Malay). Utusan Borneo. Retrieved 5 November 2021.
  19. ^ a b c Ismail, Ashwad (12 February 2014). "Abdul Taib sah letak jawatan, Adenan Satem Ketua Menteri ke-5". Astro Awani (in Malay). Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  20. ^ "Adenan angkat sumpah KM". Utusan Borneo (in Malay). 1 March 2014. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  21. ^ Chan, Zora (3 March 2014). "Sarawak maintains cabinet line-up". The Star. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  22. ^ a b "Kemudiankan urusan cari pengganti, hormati Allahyarham dan keluarganya". Utusan Borneo (in Malay). 11 January 2017. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  23. ^ Shuhaimi Zabri (7 May 2016). "BN menang besar Pilihan Raya Negeri Sarawak ke-11" [BN won big the 11th Sarawak State Election] (in Malay). Astro Awani. Retrieved 5 November 2021.
  24. ^ a b Puteri Balqish (19 May 2016). "Kabinet Sarawak 2016" (in Malay). Sarawak Voice. Retrieved 5 November 2021.
  25. ^ "Kabinet ikut nisbah kaum". Harian Metro (in Malay). 13 May 2016. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  26. ^ "Adenan passes away". The Borneo Post. 11 January 2017. Retrieved 12 January 2017.
  27. ^ "Ketua Menteri baru Sarawak dijangka angkat sumpah esok". Malaysia Dateline (in Malay). 13 January 2017. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  28. ^ "PBB tak tergesa-gesa pilih pengganti Adenan". Malaysiakini (in Malay). 12 January 2017. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  29. ^ hermesauto (11 January 2017). "Sarawak observes 7-day mourning for late Chief Minister Adenan; funeral on Thursday". The Straits Times. Retrieved 9 May 2021.
  30. ^ "Abang Johari mula tugas sebagai ketua menteri". Bernama (in Malay). Mstar. 16 January 2017. Retrieved 9 January 2022.
  31. ^ Dr Awang Azman Awang Pawi (23 April 2017). "100 hari menjejaki Abang Johari" (in Malay). Sarawak Voice. Retrieved 26 December 2021.
  32. ^ "Abang Jo minta tunggu selepas berakhir tempoh berkabung". Bernama (in Malay). Mstar. 13 January 2017. Retrieved 9 January 2022.
  33. ^ Chin (20 January 2017). "Keputusan Abang Johari kekalkan barisan kabinet cermin keperibadian beliau: Jeniri" (in Malay). The Borneo Post. Retrieved 26 December 2021.
  34. ^ "Awang Tengah appointed as Sarawak's third DCM". The Star (Malaysia). 7 May 2017. Retrieved 15 January 2022.
  35. ^ "Sarawak would lose out if we didn't recognise UEC, says Abang Jo". Free Malaysia Today. 14 December 2021. Retrieved 15 January 2022.
  36. ^ "Abang Johari akan terus iktiraf UEC dan bantu sekolah Cina" (in Malay). Astro Awani. 1 February 2017. Retrieved 9 January 2022.
  37. ^ Andy Chua (13 December 2021). "UEC recognition helps Sarawak retain human capital, says Abang Jo". The Star (Malaysia). Retrieved 15 January 2022.
  38. ^ "GPS govt to further strengthen Sarawak's education system, says Abang Johari". Dayak Daily. 21 April 2023. Archived from the original on 21 April 2023. Retrieved 1 March 2024.
  39. ^ "Sarawak to provide free education at state tertiary institutions from 2026, says premier". The Borneo Post. The Malay Mail. Archived from the original on 18 December 2023.
  40. ^ "Abang Johari dilantik semula sebagai Pro Canselor UNIMAS". TVS (in Malay). 26 October 2023. Retrieved 5 March 2024.
  41. ^ Ten, Marilyn (18 October 2023). "Swinburne Sarawak celebrates achievement of 284 grads". The Borneo Post. Retrieved 5 March 2024.
  42. ^ "Abang Johari appointed first UTS pro-chancellor effective March 1". Dayak Daily. 26 February 2022. Retrieved 5 March 2024.
  43. ^ "Sarawakians treat each other like brothers and sisters - Abang Jo". Dayak Daily. 24 December 2018. Retrieved 9 January 2022.
  44. ^ a b "Hudud tidak terpakai di Sarawak - Abang Johari". Bernama (in Malay). Astro Awani. 28 March 2017. Retrieved 9 January 2022.
  45. ^ Ling, Sharon (20 October 2020). "Abang Johari: S'wak committed to preserving religious harmony among its people". The Star (Malaysia). Retrieved 10 January 2022.
  46. ^ "UNIFOR jaga kepentingan dan kebajikan agama lain di Sarawak" (in Malay). UKAS. 22 November 2021. Retrieved 10 January 2022.
  47. ^ "Sarawakians free to practise chosen faith". Herald Malaysia. 21 May 2019. Retrieved 10 January 2022.
  48. ^ "Hanya kerajaan Sarawak mempunyai UNIFOR" [Only Sarawak government has UNIFOR] (in Malay). Sarawak Voice. 8 November 2021. Retrieved 10 January 2022.
  49. ^ Mohd Roji Kawi (30 September 2019). "Kebajikan agama lain tidak diabaikan" (in Malay). BH Online. Retrieved 10 January 2022.
  50. ^ "No problem for the Christians to use Allah in their prayers, churches - Abang Jo". Dayak Daily. 20 June 2017. Retrieved 10 January 2022.
  51. ^ Nur Shazreena Ali (6 April 2021). "Non-Muslims free to use 'Allah' any time in Sarawak, says CM". Malaysianow. Retrieved 9 January 2022.
  52. ^ "Abang Jo: Tiada nasalah agama lain guna kalimah Allah" (in Malay). Sarawak Voice. 7 September 2019. Retrieved 10 January 2022.
  53. ^ "Kepentingan semua kaum keutamaan Kerajaan Sarawak" (in Malay). Harakahdaily. 10 December 2020. Retrieved 10 January 2022.
  54. ^ Abdul Qaiyum (20 October 2020). "Abg Jo lancar pembinaan bangunan DCCI, DCF Kuching" (in Malay). Old Kuching Smart Heritage. Retrieved 10 January 2022.
  55. ^ Abdul Qaiyum (3 September 2020). "Abang Jo serah cek RM6.75 juta kepada DBNA" (in Malay). Old Kuching Smart Heritage. Retrieved 10 January 2022.
  56. ^ "Wisma Melayu Sarawak a symbol of unity – Abang Jo". The New Sarawak. 10 December 2020. Retrieved 10 January 2022.
  57. ^ "Sarawak to help ensure Malay community keeps their land in city, town centres". Bernama (in Malay). Astro Awani. 7 April 2017. Retrieved 9 January 2022.
  58. ^ Tan Hui Yee (10 May 2018). "Malaysia GE: Najib's Barisan Nasional loses grip on peninsular Malaysia". The Straits Times. Retrieved 27 December 2021.
  59. ^ "Malaysia's Sarawak State Government leaves Barisan Nasional: Statement". Bloomberg. The Edge Markets. 12 June 2018. Retrieved 27 December 2021.
  60. ^ Lee Poh Onn (15 June 2018). "Commentary: Free from the shackles of a fallen coalition, does Sarawak parties leaving spell the end of the Barisan Nasional?". Channel NewsAsia. Archived from the original on 12 June 2019. Retrieved 27 December 2021.
  61. ^ a b Sharon Ling; Geryl Ogilvy (12 June 2018). "Sarawak BN parties pull out of coalition to form independent state-based pact". The Star. Retrieved 27 December 2021.
  62. ^ "GPS takes Sarawak in a new direction". The Star. 13 June 2018. Retrieved 27 December 2021.
  63. ^ "Abang Jo: Gabungan Parti Sarawak is registered". Bernama. Free Malaysia Today. 23 August 2018. Retrieved 23 August 2018.
  64. ^ Hidir Reduan Abdul Rashid (19 November 2018). "Gabungan Parti Sarawak gets nod from RoS". New Straits Times. Yahoo! News Singapore. Archived from the original on 22 November 2018. Retrieved 27 December 2021.
  65. ^ Samuel Aubrey; Abdul Hakim Bujang; Kim How Pin; Peter Boon (20 November 2018). "ROS officially approves GPS". The Borneo Post. Retrieved 27 December 2021.
  66. ^ "CMO: GPS not a member of Perikatan Nasional, will support Muhyiddin regardless". Borneo Post. 29 February 2020. Retrieved 29 February 2020.
  67. ^ "Fadillah: GPS ministers, deputies will fight for Sarawak's rights". The Star. 9 March 2020. Retrieved 9 March 2020.
  68. ^ Lee, Yen Nee (2 March 2020). "Malaysia's new prime minister has been sworn in – but some say the political crisis is 'far from over'". CNBC. Archived from the original on 19 April 2020. Retrieved 18 March 2022.
  69. ^ Beech, Hannah (29 February 2020). "Malaysia's Premier, Mahathir Mohamad, 94, Is Out. Or So It Seems". The New York Times. Archived from the original on 16 May 2020. Retrieved 18 March 2022.
  70. ^ "What do Malaysia's latest political twists mean for Muhyiddin?". South China Morning Post. 8 July 2021. Retrieved 18 March 2022.
  71. ^ "Key party in Malaysia alliance pulls support for troubled PM". Reuters. Retrieved 18 March 2022.
  72. ^ "Gagal Penuhi Aspirasi Rakyat, UMNO Tarik Balik Sokongan Kepada PM Serta Merta". 8 July 2021. Retrieved 18 March 2022.
  73. ^ Mohd Roji Kawi (4 August 2021). "GPS: Support for Muhyiddin, PN vital to ensure smooth-running NRP". New Straits Times. Retrieved 18 March 2022.
  74. ^ Nur Shazreena Ali (10 July 2021). "GPS reiterates support for Muhyiddin". MalaysiaNow. Retrieved 18 March 2022.
  75. ^ Lee, Yen Nee (16 August 2021). "Malaysia's Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin and cabinet resign, palace confirms". CNBC. Retrieved 15 September 2021.
  76. ^ Mohd Nasaruddin Parzi, Ahmad Suhael Adnan (17 August 2021). "Umno nominating Ismail Sabri as PM candidate, says party source". New Straits Times. Retrieved 18 March 2022.
  77. ^ Faiz Zainudin (18 August 2021). "BN names Ismail Sabri as its PM candidate". Free Malaysia Today. Retrieved 18 March 2022.
  78. ^ Adrian Lim (19 August 2021). "GPS affirms support for Ismail Sabri as 9th prime minister". Dayak Daily. Retrieved 18 March 2022.
  79. ^ Palansamy, Yiswaree (20 August 2021). "Agong appoints Ismail Sabri as Malaysia's ninth prime minister | Malay Mail". www.malaymail.com. Retrieved 18 March 2022.
  80. ^ "Six new Covid-19 cases in Sarawak". The Star. 14 March 2020. Archived from the original on 18 March 2020. Retrieved 9 January 2022 – via Daily Express.
  81. ^ Povera, Adib (16 March 2020). "Covid-19: Sarawak schools to shut, or have holidays extended". New Straits Times. Archived from the original on 18 March 2020. Retrieved 9 January 2022.
  82. ^ Tang, Ashley (16 March 2020). "Malaysia announces movement control order after spike in Covid-19 cases (updated)". The Star. Archived from the original on 18 March 2020. Retrieved 9 January 2022.
  83. ^ "Perintah Kawalan Pergerakan bersyarat akan dilaksana - Muhyiddin". Bernama (in Malay). 5 January 2020. Archived from the original on 2 May 2020. Retrieved 1 May 2020.
  84. ^ Loo, Cindi (7 June 2020). "CMCO ends June 9, Recovery MCO from June 10 to Aug 31 (Updated)". The Sun Daily. Archived from the original on 7 June 2020. Retrieved 7 June 2020.
  85. ^ Ling, Sharon (12 March 2021). "Covid-19: CMCO in Sarawak extended to March 29". The Star. Archived from the original on 12 March 2021. Retrieved 13 March 2021.
  86. ^ "Sarawak CMCO extended further to May 17 as Covid-19 cases surge". The Borneo Post. 26 April 2021. Archived from the original on 3 May 2021. Retrieved 3 May 2021.
  87. ^ Ling, Sharon (8 April 2021). "CMCO in Sarawak extended from April 13–26". The Star. Retrieved 3 May 2021.
  88. ^ "PM to deliver special address on National Recovery Plan at 5pm today (June 15)". The Star. Retrieved 11 August 2021.
  89. ^ "Sarawak and Kelantan to move to Phase 4". Retrieved 31 December 2021.
  90. ^ "Sarawak, Perlis negeri contoh berjaya bendung Covid-19". Malaysiakini. 28 December 2020. Retrieved 9 January 2022.
  91. ^ a b Mohd Roji Kawi (15 December 2021). "Bantuan Khas Sarawakku Sayang bantu rakyat terkesan COVID-19" (in Malay). BH Online. Retrieved 9 January 2022.
  92. ^ Ten, Marilyn (14 January 2021). "Covid-19: New daily record of 180 positive cases in Sarawak today, 150 from Sibu". Borneo Post. Archived from the original on 14 January 2021. Retrieved 14 January 2021.
  93. ^ "COVID-19: Sarawak To Mobilise Vaccination Team To Interior Areas Soon". Borneo Today. 19 March 2021. Retrieved 9 January 2022.
  94. ^ Ting, Russell (26 February 2021). "Abang Johari among first in Sarawak to be injected with Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine". The Borneo Post. Retrieved 9 January 2022.
  95. ^ Bong, Karen; Hui, Ling (19 March 2021). "Abang Johari receives second COVID-19 shot". Dayak Daily. Retrieved 9 January 2022.
  96. ^ Suhaimi, Nazmi (21 July 2021). "Sarawak among the fastest in vaccine rollout". New Sarawak Tribune. Retrieved 9 January 2022.
  97. ^ Chua, Andy (11 July 2021). "Sarawak sees drop in daily Covid-19 cases with 270 reported on Sunday (July 11)". The Star (Malaysia). Retrieved 9 January 2022.
  98. ^ "Delta is now dominant COVID-19 variant in Sarawak". Dayak Daily. 28 August 2021. Retrieved 9 January 2022.
  99. ^ Chua, Andy (12 September 2021). "Covid-19: Sarawak's all-time high of 5,291 cases on Sunday (Sept 12) includes five-day backlog, more rapid test kits to be deployed". The Star (Malaysia). Retrieved 9 January 2022.
  100. ^ Ling, Sharon (16 November 2021). "Covid-19: Sarawak booster dose programme extended to those aged 40 and above". The Star (Malaysia). Retrieved 9 January 2022.
  101. ^ Goh Pei Pei (12 October 2021). "Sarawak starts giving Covid-19 booster doses". New Straits Times. Retrieved 9 January 2022.
  102. ^ Karen Bong (28 November 2021). "Dr Sim: Booster shots help decrease COVID-19 cases in Sarawak, Sinovac boosters to be rolled out next week". Dayak Daily. Retrieved 9 January 2022.
  103. ^ "COVIDNOW Sarawak". Ministry of Health (Malaysia).
  104. ^ a b c d e f g "DBOS, PETROS inisiatif transformasi ekonomi Sarawak" [DBOS, PETROS Sarawak economic transformation initiative] (in Malay). Utusan Borneo. 14 January 2020. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
  105. ^ a b c d e "S'wak's chief minister leapfrogs state's development through digital transformation". New Straits Times. 15 December 2022. Retrieved 8 January 2022.
  106. ^ Emmor (9 November 2017). "Sarawak Multimedia Authority will be chaired by CM — Wong". The Borneo Post. Retrieved 8 January 2022.
  107. ^ "Penubuhan DBOS, inisiatif transformasi eknonomi negeri Sarawak" [Establishment of DBOS, Sarawak's economic transformation initiative] (in Malay). Astro Awani. 25 June 2021. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
  108. ^ Kawi, Mohd Roji (3 November 2017). "DBOS beroperasi 2018" [DBOS operates 2018] (in Malay). Berita Harian. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
  109. ^ Kawi, Mohd Roji (19 January 2019). "Tok Nan inspirasi GPS" (in Malay). Harian Metro. Retrieved 9 January 2022.
  110. ^ "MA63: Govt to pay close attention to Sabah, Sarawak matters of interest — PM Ismail Sabri". The Edge. 16 September 2021. Archived from the original on 11 November 2021. Retrieved 11 November 2021.
  111. ^ Lee, Stephanie (19 October 2021). "Bill to return Sabah, Sarawak to equal constitutional status to be tabled soon, says Ongkili". The Star. Retrieved 11 November 2021.
  112. ^ Razak, Radzi (3 November 2021). "Govt to table four constitutional amendments to restore Sabah and Sarawak's position". Malay Mail. Retrieved 11 November 2021.
  113. ^ Zulkifli, Ahmad Mustakim (14 December 2021). "MPs unanimously vote for constitutional amendments to empower Sabah, Sarawak". MalaysiaNow. Retrieved 14 December 2021.
  114. ^ "RUU MA63: Abang Johari zahir penghargaan kepada ahli Parlimen". Sinar Harian (in Malay). 15 December 2021. Retrieved 9 January 2022.
  115. ^ "Abang Jo: MA63 struggles in no way mean Sarawak looking to leave Malaysia". The Borneo Post. Malay Mail. 21 December 2021. Retrieved 9 January 2022.
  116. ^ "Sarawak tubuh syarikat minyak sendiri". BH Online (in Malay). 11 June 2017. Retrieved 18 January 2018.
  117. ^ "S'wak forming O&G firm to do own exploration". MalaysiaKini. 4 July 2017.
  118. ^ Tawie, Sulok (9 August 2017). "CM: Sarawak oil company equal with PETRONAS". Malay Mail Online. Retrieved 30 November 2017.
  119. ^ "PETROS officially formed, says Sarawak CM". www.thesundaily.my. 7 August 2017. Retrieved 18 January 2018.
  120. ^ "Sarawak to set up own oil company amid ongoing talks with PETRONAS - Business News | The Star Online". The Star Online. 5 September 2017. Retrieved 18 January 2018.
  121. ^ "PETROS up and running by 2020". Borneo Post Online. 14 January 2018. Retrieved 18 January 2018.
  122. ^ a b Khairie, Hisyam Aliman (8 February 2018). "Cover Story: Why Sarawak questions the Petroleum Development Act". The Edge Weekly (Malaysia). Archived from the original on 2 May 2018. Retrieved 2 May 2018.
  123. ^ Jonathan, Chia (9 August 2017). "Successful mission". The Borneo Post. Archived from the original on 10 October 2017. Retrieved 5 May 2018.
  124. ^ Sharon, Ling (9 November 2017). "Sarawak Assembly approves high-level task force to discuss issues under Malaysia Agreement". The Sun Daily. Archived from the original on 9 November 2017. Retrieved 7 June 2018.
  125. ^ Ogilvy, Geryl (19 April 2018). "Abang Johari: Oil and gas companies must get relevant permits by July 1". The Star (Malaysia). Archived from the original on 19 April 2018. Retrieved 30 April 2018.
  126. ^ Churchill, Edward (8 March 2018). "PETRONAS welcomes PETROS". The Borneo Post. Archived from the original on 8 March 2018. Retrieved 30 April 2018.
  127. ^ Desmond, Davidson (7 March 2018). "Not true that Sarawak has reclaimed oil and gas rights, says opposition". The Malaysian Insight. Archived from the original on 5 June 2018. Retrieved 5 June 2018.
  128. ^ "Pakatan offers 'New Deal Agreement' to state BN". The Borneo Post. 10 April 2018. Archived from the original on 7 June 2018. Retrieved 7 June 2018.
  129. ^ "PH Sarawak's 'New Deal Agreement' no force of law — Abdullah". The Borneo Post. 19 May 2018. Archived from the original on 21 May 2018. Retrieved 7 June 2018.
  130. ^ Intan Farhana, Zainul (9 June 2018). "The PETRONAS-Sarawak oil intrigue". The Star (Malaysia). Archived from the original on 10 June 2018. Retrieved 10 June 2018.
  131. ^ Raynore, Mering (4 June 2018). "See you in court, Sarawak government tells PETRONAS". The Malay Mail. Archived from the original on 4 June 2018. Retrieved 4 June 2018.
  132. ^ "PETRONAS loses bid to challenge Sarawak govt". The Star (Malaysia). 23 June 2018. Archived from the original on 23 June 2018. Retrieved 24 June 2018.
  133. ^ Jacob, Achoi (10 July 2018). "State Legislative Assembly passes Oil Mining (Amendment) Bill, 2018". The Borneo Post. Archived from the original on 11 July 2018. Retrieved 12 July 2018.
  134. ^ Sharon, Ling. "Sarawak to charge 5% sales tax on petroleum products from next year". 5 November 2018. Archived from the original on 6 November 2018. Retrieved 29 September 2019.
  135. ^ Lim, How Pim (13 September 2019). "PETRONAS given to end of September to pay 5 pct sales tax on petroleum products". The Borneo Post. Archived from the original on 16 September 2019. Retrieved 29 September 2019.
  136. ^ Sam, Chua (28 September 2019). "Sarawak govt will sue PETRONAS if it doesn't pay 5pct sales tax by October, says Abdul Karim". The Borneo Post. Archived from the original on 28 September 2019. Retrieved 29 September 2019.
  137. ^ "Dr M: 20pct oil royalty for Sarawak, Sabah 'really not workable'". 27 September 2019. Archived from the original on 28 September 2019. Retrieved 29 September 2019.
  138. ^ Sulok, Tawie (21 November 2019). "Sarawak files lawsuit against PETRONAS in bid to recover unpaid sales tax". The Malay Mail. Archived from the original on 21 November 2019. Retrieved 21 November 2019.
  139. ^ Larissa, Lumandan (12 February 2020). "PETROS takes over control of Sarawak gas from PETRONAS". Free Malaysia Today. Archived from the original on 13 February 2020. Retrieved 13 February 2020.
  140. ^ Sulok, Tawie (13 March 2020). "High Court rules for Sarawak in sales tax dispute with PETRONAS". The Malay Mail. Archived from the original on 14 March 2020. Retrieved 14 March 2020.
  141. ^ Aziz, Adam (8 May 2020). "PETRONAS to pay Sarawak RM2b sales tax for 2019, with resolution reached on future arrangements". The Edge Markets. Archived from the original on 10 May 2020. Retrieved 10 May 2020.
  142. ^ "Sarawak govt assumes control of oil and gas resources in Miri, Marudi". Malaysiakini. 31 October 2020. Archived from the original on 1 November 2020. Retrieved 4 November 2020.
  143. ^ Aubrey, Samuel (2 December 2020). "State govt mulling gas distribution system for Kuching, Kota Samarahan". The Borneo Post. Archived from the original on 3 December 2020. Retrieved 3 December 2020.
  144. ^ Ten, Marilyn (2 December 2020). "Sarawak's PETROS brand LPG launched, to be distributed next year". The Borneo Post. Archived from the original on 3 December 2020. Retrieved 3 December 2020.
  145. ^ "Term of Sarawak's legislative assembly ends, but it will continue until Feb 2 due to state of emergency". The Straits Times. 6 June 2021. Retrieved 7 June 2021.
  146. ^ "Dr Sim: No election in Sarawak until after Feb 2, 2022 due to Emergency". Borneo Post Online. 31 July 2021. Retrieved 31 July 2021.
  147. ^ Sharon Ling (3 November 2021). "Emergency in Sarawak lifted". The Star. Retrieved 3 November 2021.
  148. ^ Samuel Aubrey (19 December 2021). "GPS officially wins 76 out of 82 seats following thumping victory in Mulu". The Borneo Post. Retrieved 20 December 2021.
  149. ^ Wen, Lok Jian (15 February 2022). "Sarawak vote to call its leader 'premier' could be first step to greater autonomy". The Straits Times. Retrieved 16 February 2022.
  150. ^ a b Mohd Roji Kawi (21 February 2017). "Tak perlu iklan tahniah ulang tahun perkahwinan" [No need for wedding anniversary congratulations ads] (in Malay). Berita Harian. Retrieved 4 November 2021.
  151. ^ "Yang di-Pertua Negeri – List of Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak". The Sarawak government. Retrieved 4 November 2021.
  152. ^ "Abang Johari tests positive for COVID-19". Dayak Daily. 8 March 2022. Retrieved 17 March 2022.
  153. ^ "Federal Government Gazette - Results of Contested Election and Statements of the Poll after the Official Addition of Votes Sarawak [P.U. (B) 245/2011]" (PDF). Attorney General's Chambers of Malaysia. 29 April 2011. Retrieved 27 April 2016.[permanent dead link]
  154. ^ "Federal Government Gazette - Notice of Contested Election, State Legislative Assembly of the State of Sarawak [P.U. (B) 190/2016]" (PDF). Attorney General's Chambers of Malaysia. 25 April 2016. Archived from the original (PDF) on 12 June 2017. Retrieved 3 November 2021.
  155. ^ "Senarai Calon yang Disahkan Layak Bertanding Pilihan Raya Dewan Undangan Negeri ke-11". Election Commission of Malaysia. 25 April 2016. Archived from the original on 25 April 2016. Retrieved 3 November 2021.
  156. ^ "Saya ikhlas bantu rakyat - Ketua Menteri Sarawak". Bernama (in Malay). Astro Awani. 5 October 2020. Retrieved 3 November 2021.
  157. ^ "Former Chief Justice and ex-FELDA chairman head King's birthday honours list". The Edge Markets. 13 November 2021. Archived from the original on 13 November 2021. Retrieved 13 November 2021.
  158. ^ "Tun Taib kurnia Pingat Darjah Kebesaran Negeri". www.utusanborneo.com.my.
  159. ^ "Sarawak Premier heads Sabah TYT's Awards list". www.thestar.com.my.
  160. ^ "Abang Johari terima darjah kebesaran Brunei". 15 July 2024. Retrieved 15 July 2024.
  161. ^ "Sarawak will decide its own future in developing state: Abang Jo". Bernama. The Sun Daily. 7 October 2017. Retrieved 3 November 2021. ... was speaking at a ceremony to confer a honorary doctorate from the University College Of Technology Sarawak (UCTS) on him ...
  162. ^ Nigel Edgar (29 October 2018). "Unimas convocation: Abg Jo leads 4103 to receive their scrolls". Dayak Daily. Retrieved 3 November 2021.
  163. ^ Samuel Aubrey (20 December 2018). "Abang Johari receives honorary doctorate from Swinburne Melbourne". The Borneo Post. Retrieved 3 November 2021.


Political offices
Preceded by 6th Chief Minister of Sarawak
2017–2022
Position abolished
Became Premier of Sarawak
New office
Previously Chief Minister of Sarawak
Premier of Sarawak
2022–
Incumbent