SUPP continues 'Sarawak First' vision, says Dr Sim
KUCHING (June 4): Sarawak United People's Party (SUPP) has remained steadfast in fighting for the rights of Sarawak's multi-racial community, said party president Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.
Speaking at the party's 66th anniversary flag-raising ceremony, held at its headquarters here today, Dr Sim emphasised that the celebration signified more than just the party's age or its status as Sarawak's first political party.
'This is not just a celebration of 66 years of SUPP, nor merely a celebration of Sarawak's first political party or its multi-racial identity.
'Rather, It is a celebration to continue the same vision and mission of our founders, which is 'Sarawak First', since 1959,' he said.
Dr Sim, who is Sarawak Deputy Premier, reiterated SUPP's ongoing commitment to fighting for Sarawak's constitutional rights, including autonomy in health and education, under the 'Sarawak First' agenda.
He expressed gratitude to the party's founding fathers, as well as past and present members and leadership for their sacrifices throughout a journey filled with 'ups and downs, disappointments, and hardships.'
'Despite all these challenges, they stayed loyal to the party. That's why the party is still around today,' he added.
(From front row, fourth left) Bong, Lee, Dr Sim, Yap and other distinguished SUPP members pose for a group photo during the cake-cutting ceremony. – Photo by Chimon Upon.
Touching on Sarawak's development, Dr Sim highlighted the state's RM15.8 billion budget for this year, which is approximately 16 times larger than Penang's and over five times larger than Selangor's budgets.
'We are no longer number 13, we are no longer going to be last. We want to be as good as anywhere else in Malaysia,' he stressed, referencing Sarawak's position in the Malaysian IC code.
'That's why we need to stand up and help Sarawak in its nation-building,' he said.
He also emphasised the need to prioritise Sarawakians first while contributing to a stable Malaysia.
'There is no question about our commitment to Malaysia as a stable government. However, we cannot make that commitment if divisive, polarising, and politicising forces persist.
'That depends on the rest of Malaysia — because here in Sarawak, we are not divisive,' he said.
As Sarawak approaches 2030, Dr Sim acknowledged the state's strong progress under the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 but raised concerns about sustainability.
'We need more Sarawakians to step forward and play their role in nation-building,' he urged.
He noted that Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg is already strategising beyond 2030.
Looking ahead, Dr Sim reaffirmed that Sarawak is evolving beyond being just a 'kampung'.
'We are building a regional hub for commerce, tourism, banking, and energy. This is the future of Sarawak as a regional hub in Southeast Asia,' he added.
Among those present were SUPP deputy president Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, deputy secretary-general Dato Lo Khere Chiang, SUPP Kota Sentosa Branch chairman Wilfred Yap, and organising chairman Wilian Bong Lip Ken. 66th anniversary flag-raising ceremony Dr Sim Kui Hian lead SUPP
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