In swipe at DAP, Abang Johari says ‘their rocket never takes off’

Sarawak Premier Abang Johari Openg dismissed the DAP's criticisms of the state's infrastructure projects, stating that the region is more focused on developing its own satellite capabilities instead of launching rockets. While addressing a Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu conference in Kuching, he mocked the DAP's rocket symbol, which he claimed has never taken off, as it is merely a picture.

Abang Johari revealed that the state has been approached by ambassadors from Saudi Arabia and Russia to explore potential cooperation on rocket launches due to the region's proximity to the Equator. However, he emphasized that Sarawak is content with its existing rocket and finds the symbol divisive. Tanjung Embang, a proposed deep-water port, and the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) project, aimed at improving public transport in Kuching, are key infrastructure initiatives that the DAP has urged the state to reconsider.

The DAP chief, Chong Chieng Jen, had requested the halt of ART development, questioning the proposed new Kuching international airport and the deep-sea port project, citing concerns over budget deficits. Abang Johari also dismissed a proposal by the Parti Bansa Dayak Sarawak to limit the premier's tenure to two consecutive terms, dismissing it as unrelated to their administration.