Activist, NGOs: New Sarawak Water board lacks ethnic, religious diversity
Local activist Peter John Jaban and several non-govermental organisations described the development as troubling and out of step with Sarawak's multiracial identity. – File photo
MIRI (June 30): The recent appointment of a new board of directors at Sarawak Water Sdn Bhd has drawn concern due to the purported lack of ethnic and religious diversity.
Local activist Peter John Jaban and several non-govermental organisations described the development as troubling and out of step with Sarawak's multiracial identity.
According to them, while the company's mandate in managing one of the state's most vital public resources remains unchanged, the composition of the newly appointed board has sparked widespread concern among the public, particularly on social media.
'The makeup of the new board raises serious questions about inclusivity and representation. It appears to be dominated by individuals from one race and one religion, with no representation from the Chinese community or other non-Muslim groups.
'In a state as diverse as Sarawak, this is not only disappointing, it is unacceptable,' they said in a statement.
They emphasised that their statement was not intended to be racially provocative or to challenge the qualifications of those appointed.
However, they pointed out that the current composition sends an unfortunate and troubling message.
'It implies, falsely, that there are no educated, experienced or capable Chinese or non-Muslim Sarawakians who are trusted or qualified to serve in such leadership roles within state-linked companies. That is a deeply unjust suggestion,' they said.
They added that Sarawak has long been seen as a model of racial and religious harmony, and this spirit must also be reflected in the composition of leadership in public institutions.
They highlighted that when a government-linked company, especially one that manages essential public resources, is dominated by one group, it risks eroding public trust and creating perceptions of bias, exclusion, or political favoritism.
'We urge the state government and all relevant authorities to reassess the current board structure of Sarawak Water Sdn Bhd and to take concrete steps to restore balance, diversity and inclusiveness. Appointments must reflect not just competence, but also the diversity of the people.' diversity lead Peter John Jaban Sarawak Water Sdn Bhd
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