‘Nation-building goes beyond government agenda’

KUCHING (Jan 12): Sarawak’s journey towards nation-building has never been more critical than now as the state navigates a rapidly-changing economic, technological, and social landscape.

However, it goes beyond being a government agenda, as it is regarded as a collective endeavour requiring the participation of every Sarawakian.

This was the general sentiment of Sarawakians working overseas who were interviewed by The Borneo Post, in connection with the statement by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian about Sarawakians choosing not to return to their homeland to contribute to its development as ‘not being considered truly successful’.

“The classic example is our mission schools and Chinese schools.

“They are so successful that our students become famous all over the world. They go everywhere, but they never come home.

“So, I don’t call that successful,” said Dr Sim in an event here on Jan 8.

Regardless of how Sarawakians might perceive his remarks, the Deputy Premier’s message did highlight that those from the ‘jungles of Borneo’ – as he would often refer Sarawakians as – each had a role to play in the collective effort of nation-building.

For Michael Ronald David, 38, a deck foreman and crane operator from Betong now working in Doha, Qatar, Dr Sim’s remarks should be seen as encouragement rather than as criticism.

“It really depends on how we look at it.

“I believe Datuk Amar Dr Sim was not speaking negatively, but rather he was encouraging Sarawakians to give back and be part of building the state; something that he himself had done by returning to serve Sarawak,” he said.

Moreover, Michael said success could take ‘many forms’.

“Some contribute by coming home; others by supporting Sarawak from abroad through skills, networks or resources.

“What matters is ‘the heart to give back’, wherever we are.”

Lionel Raoh, 39, from Kuching, now engaged in offshore oil and gas sector, said many internationally-successful individuals often had long-term commitments abroad.

“The ecosystem that supports their success may not be available in Sarawak.

“Many can still contribute without physically returning.

“Ideally, though, their success overseas should be shared with younger Sarawakians through mentorship or knowledge-transfer,” he said.

Rachel Frankie, 35, also from Kuching and now work in Singapore as a yacht stewardess, viewed physical presence as not being the sole measure of contribution.

“In today’s connected world, many of us can contribute from afar.

“I promote Sarawak through cultural shows and performances with Sarawak Trade and Tourism in Singapore.

“Many Sarawakians abroad are gaining skills and perspectives that will eventually benefit the state far more than if we had never left,” she said.

Bathsheba Sharon Mejin, 38, an online business owner from Kuching, highlighted the economic realities.

“There are pros and cons when it comes to Sarawak wanting its people overseas to return home.

“Stagnant wages, rising living costs and limited financial incentives need to be addressed,” she pointed out.

Sales advisor Stavelley Wan, 33, from Miri, added that the matter should be viewed realistically.

“It saddens me to see Sarawakians working abroad, while their expertise could have benefitted the state.

“Most of them are more comfortable working near family and familiar surroundings.

“Salary, job opportunities, and work relevance are the key factors.

“Many graduates work outside their fields due to income pressures, which drives migration.

“The authorities must engage directly with the people, listen to their challenges, and address root causes for effective solutions,” he said.

Dr Sim’s remarks have since been hotly debated on various social media platforms.

Dr Sim Kui Hian lead nation-building Sarawakians abroad Sarawakians returning to state