Zahid warns those who talk about Sarawak secession

All agencies under the Home Ministry and Rela will be at the forefront to thwart any such attempt, says deputy prime minister

KUCHING: The government will come down hard on those wanting to break up the strong relationship between the Sarawak state and federal governments.

Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi warned that all agencies under the Home Ministry and Rela would be at the forefront to thwart any such attempt.

He said this at a Hari Raya gathering organised by the state Rela at the Sarawak Indoor Stadium tonight which was also attended by Chief Minister Adenan Satem and about 7,000 people, mostly Rela members.

The deputy premier said he was confident the already close relationship was going to be even closer now.

“Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak has high regard and confidence in the leadership of Adenan.

“The people should guard such close relationships which is vital for the state and country to progress and prosper,” he said.

He also added the spirit of being Malaysians should be strengthened by the people of Sarawak, Sabah and the peninsula for greater prosperity of the country.

Meanwhile, on the coming state election, Zahid also expressed confidence that the state Barisan Nasional government under Adenan would receive the support of the people.

Zahid later announced a grant of RM2 million for the state Rela to match a similar amount which Adenan had pledged earlier in his speech.

He also promised to visit Sarawak more often and in particular its rural areas and to bring more development funds and grants as well.

“It is our hope the people will know how to reciprocate when the government needs them to do so,” he said.

– BERNAMA