Sarawak Premier Hints Current Term May Be His Last
- Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has signaled that his current term in office may be his last.
- Having served as premier and PBB president since January 2017, Abang Johari told convention attendees that nature dictates a limit on political longevity.
- "Perhaps this is my final year," he said, while other reports captured his remarks as, "This may be my last time." He added that leaders must recognize when...
Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has signaled that his current term in office may be his last. Speaking to supporters at the launch of the Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) Northern Zone Special Convention in Miri, Sarawak, the 76-year-old leader pointed to the realities of aging while addressing leadership succession within the state’s dominant ruling party.
Abang Johari Signals Final Term as Sarawak Premier
The Reality of Aging and the 80-Year Milestone
Having served as premier and PBB president since January 2017, Abang Johari told convention attendees that nature dictates a limit on political longevity. He noted that in four years he will reach the age of 80.
“Perhaps this is my final year,” he said, while other reports captured his remarks as, “This may be my last time.” He added that leaders must recognize when to step aside: “Leaders change. There comes a time when we say thank you, I am stepping aside, and someone new replaces me. We have to train our successors.”
Institutional Strength Beyond a Single Individual
Addressing the internal mechanics of PBB, Abang Johari emphasized that the party’s future strength must not rely on any single individual. He stressed the necessity of a smooth transition to younger members to ensure the party’s ongoing struggle for Sarawak continues. He noted that PBB maintains an established system to rejuvenate its ranks and identify potential leaders across all divisions.
Required Competencies for Incoming Successors
To prepare for this transition, Abang Johari outlined specific competencies required of incoming leaders. He stated that the younger generation must be equipped with leadership skills as well as the ability to communicate and engage effectively with individuals from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds. He further highlighted the importance of cultivating disciplined leaders who understand community needs to safeguard Sarawakâs political stability.
State Election Timelines and Exit Timing
While outlining his thoughts on a potential departure, Abang Johari indicated that any final determination regarding his exit timing remains unconfirmed, noting that he will make the decision to leave when the time comes.
Under current state timelines, the Sarawak state assembly’s term expires in February, requiring an election within 60 days of dissolution or by April at the latest.