Dapsy hails Petros deal as historic step in power return to Sarawak
Soo says Sarawak was witnessing a genuine return of power for the first time in 60 years since the formation of Malaysia.
KUCHING (May 29): The Democratic Action Party Socialist Youth (Dapsy) Sarawak has hailed the recent joint declaration between the Sarawak and federal governments on recognising Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (Petros) as the primary entity for natural gas sales, a historic beginning of federal power devolution to the state.
Its political education director Soo Tien Ren said Sarawak was witnessing a genuine return of power for the first time in 60 years since the formation of Malaysia.
'This achievement did not come easy. It is not mere rhetoric, but the result of practical reform efforts by the Unity Government.
'It reflects the spirit of devolution that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and the Unity Government carries, and is a direct outcome of the political vision long championed by the DAP.
'DAP has consistently advocated for decentralisation and local autonomy.
'Today, Sarawak's rights are no longer sidelined. This milestone is the result of our unwavering principles, fearless stance and relentless efforts,' he said in a statement today.
Soo claimed that the Sarawak United People's Party (SUPP), having been in the state government for six decades, had nothing to show but failure and negligence.
He went on to charge that SUPP had stood as a passive gatekeeper within the then Barisan Nasional coalition, and is now trying to ride on this historic achievement and take credit.
'Sarawakians must make it clear to these politicians: the people are watching, and they see the truth. You were the failed gatekeepers, and now you try to pose as saviours – a laughable and desperate charade.'
According to Soo, the Unity Government stands for inclusion, cooperation and pluralism, and remains committed to fighting religious and racial extremism as well as to building a just and progressive new Malaysia.
He stressed that Sarawak, as a model of multicultural harmony, must protect this spirit of unity. DAPSY oil and gas Petros Soo Tien Ren
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