Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg responds to reporters after launching the Kuching Hybrid City Alliance on Oct 22. – Photo by Chimon Upon
LAWAS (Oct 31): Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Openg is saddened by the passing of his deputy Tan Sri Datuk Amar Dr James Jemut Masing, who he said has contributed very much to the state.
Abang Johari said Masing’s passing was a big loss to the state and the Dayak community.
He said Masing has been a partner in the state cabinet who had contributed a lot during the state administration under Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud, Pehin Sri Adenan Satem and under him.
“As a partner and friend, I am personally very saddened with his passing this morning,” he said when met in Lawas after officiating MySRBN project in Kampung Tengah in Trusan today.
Abang Johari gave assurance that Masing’s struggle to bring greater development to central Sarawak under the Upper Rejang Developament Agency (Urda) would continue.
Abang Johari almost teared up when asked on his unforgettable last moments with Masing.
On behalf of the state government, he conveyed his deepest condolences and sympathy to Masing’s family.
To a question, Abang Johari said he would leave it to Parti Rakyat Sarawak to pick Masing’s successor as the party president.
An old photo shared by Lee, showing Masing (fourth right) during an official visit to Public Works Department (JKR) Miri on Aug 6, 2016.
Masing’s colleague in the state Cabinet, State Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin said Sarawak has lost a true Sarawakian leader with the passing of Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Datuk Amar Dr James Jemut Masing who always had the interest of Sarawakians at heart.
“I had known him for over 30 years. His heart has always been with Sarawak, fighting for Sarawak’s interest,” he said.
Describing Masing as a dedicated leader and a good friend, Lee recalled that when he was the Assistant Minister for Land and Air Transportation which was under the Masing’s ministry, he was the person who was always willing to offer his advice and share his experience.
“He was very committed to bring the best for his people. To hear of his passing was shocking and with heavy heart,” said the Senadin assemblyman.
Abdul Karim seen during a press conference on Sept 29. – Photo by Roystein Emmor
Another colleague, Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said Masing was a well respected deputy chief minister by all sectors of society regardless of race and religion.
“The state lost a strong leader, and for Sarawakians his demise is sorely felt,” he said.
Abdul Karim said in his political journey, Masing had strongly advocated for the better well-being of those in the rural areas.
He added during his time as an elected representative and state Cabinet member, Masing had brought many changes to rural areas especially in Kapit.
“The excellent work by him is worth emulating by present leaders and also the next echelon of leaders in Sarawak,” he said.
Dato Sri Fadillah Yusof
Meanwhile, Senior Works Minister and Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) Parliamentary chief whip Dato Sri Fadillah Yusof said he was saddened by Masing’s demise.
“Sarawak has lost a veteran, very experienced and capable leader who was very committed to serve the people. He also has contributed immensely to the development of Sarawak,” said Fadillah who is Petra Jaya MP.
“We lost a great man who has dedicated his life, not only for this state, but the entire nation. My deepest condolences to his family. Sarawakians will remember him as hero.
“Let’s keep him in our prayers and thank you for your contribution Tan Sri,” said Fadillah.
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