In a decisive call to action, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg of Sarawak stressed the pressing need for the region to revamp its laws to squarely address present-day challenges and align with global dynamics. His remarks came during the Civil Service Day, held at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching, where he unequivocally emphasized the urgency to modernize archaic legislation, a necessity amplified by the escalating threat of cybercrimes and human trafficking.
Addressing Human Trafficking and Cybercrime
Abang Johari pointedly addressed the plight of Sarawakians, who have fallen prey to human trafficking schemes in countries as far afield as Cambodia, Myanmar, and Peru. He underscored the imperative need for stringent laws designed to detect, deter, and ultimately prevent such heinous crimes. The Premier also drew attention to the rampant rise of cybercrime, underscoring the importance of relevant legislation to unmask offenders and implement effectual preventative measures.
Updating Legislation for Gas Distribution and Management
Further, Abang Johari spotlighted recent legislative changes in Sarawak, particularly in the spheres of gas distribution and management. He emphasized the criticality for civil servants to familiarize themselves with these new laws, stating that understanding and adherence to the updated legal framework is a crucial element in navigating Sarawak’s role in the evolving global economy.
A Call to Action
The event was attended by several high-ranking officials, including Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, and Sarawak Federal Secretary Datuk Ahmad Nadzri Mohd Hassan. Abang Johari’s strong stance on the necessity of legal modernization reverberated throughout the convention center, cementing the urgency of this issue for the future of Sarawak.