Pending rep talking ‘nonsense’ — Abdullah
KUCHING: Chief political secretary to the Chief Minister, Abdullah Saidol, yesterday chided Pending assemblywoman Violet Yong for saying the state government was losing in its negotiation with the federal government for oil and gas royalty hike.
He described Yong’s claim as “absolute nonsense and hollow”.
Abdullah said efforts seeking a revision of the royalty were only initiated no more than 10 months ago, when it was first raised by the BN in the State Legislative Assembly sitting last May.
The complexity of the negotiation did not rest solely on royalty alone, he explained.
“The motion that was passed last year also mentioned that we also wish to explore any other options or considerations deemed beneficial to the state.
“For all intents and purposes, the chief minister’s expectation and desire is to get more funds from the federal government, including through Petronas, for development, especially in the rural areas,” he said in a press statement.
Abdullah said Yong’s attempt to discredit Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem was an obvious sign of desperation and insecurity on the part of the DAP after realising that Adenan was fast gaining the trust of the people, including the Chinese community.
“He (Adenan) is
gaining undivided support and respect from all senior BN leaders, including those from the federal government. Our CM’s brand of leadership has been described as revitalising and a new inspiration for all Sarawkians.”
Abdullah added that Yong cannot deny it was Adenan who made the quick decision to give money to Chinese schools.
Adenan is also committed to get the Unified Examination Certificate ( UEC) recognised and had lowered electricity tariffs since helming the state a year ago.
“Violet’s notion that the federal government will take Sarawak seriously if the opposition continue to be supported is absolutely absurd. “Contrary to what she believed, supporting the opposition will sent unfavourable signals to the federal government and that will be detrimental to our CM’s sincere plan to bring Sarawak to another level of development.
“It may also jeopardise his (Adenan) intention to further assist the Chinese communities.”
Abdullah said Adenan needed the support of all Sarawakians, and that could be done by giving him a big mandate in the 11th state election.
“If she ( Violet) truly wants to understand the meaning of failure, she should see more closely how the Penang government under the DAP has failed to significantly fulfil its election promises.”