The author of the biography Gabenor Pertama Sarawak, Tun Openg, Datuk Dr. Jeniri Amir, hopes his latest work will inspire and motivate the younger generation.
The recipient of the MPI-Petronas Special Journalism Award 2021 took 16 years to trace the extraordinary journey of the late Tun Abang Openg Abang Sapiee.
His meticulous research on the life of the monumental Sarawakian figure and important documents related to the state’s development took him from Singapore to London, finally resulting in his 58th published work.
‘The first step in this long and challenging journey for the book started in 2008, which took me to Singapore and London to examine various documents related to Sarawak and Tun Openg.
‘This book showcases all the challenges, successes, and sacrifices he (Abang Openg) endured for the state and the people. I certainly feel relieved after conducting such extensive research and writing,’ he said in his speech at the launch of the biography today.
He highlighted that Abang Openg made signific
ant contributions to the formation and development of Sarawak and exemplified leadership with integrity, ensuring that every segment of society benefited from his development agenda.
Speaking to reporters after launching his late father’s biography, Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said he has always considered him as his mentor, who consistently emphasised the importance of education and economic maturity.
“We are talking about the new era but still embracing the spirit of the past. So, now when I am given the opportunity to lead Sarawak, that becomes the basis for us to move forward,” he added.
The 26-chapter book outlines Tun Openg’s political career, starting as a clerk before serving as a government officer and eventually being appointed as the first Governor of Sarawak after the state became part of Malaysia in 1963. He passed away on March 28, 1969.
The 333-page book narrates the political journey of this prominent leader across four eras: the rule of Charles Vyner Brooke, the Japanes
e occupation, the British administration, and Malaysia.
Born on Oct 7, 1905, in Kuching, Tun Openg had 10 children from his marriage with Toh Puan Dayang Masniah Abang Abdul Rahman.
Source: BERNAMA News Agency
