While the next Sarawak governor has yet to be decided, it was reported that the swearing-in ceremony for the post is slated to be held on Jan 29.
According to a report by the New Straits Times, it remains uncertain whether the swearing-in ceremony would involve acting governor Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar or a new individual as the head of the state.
Quoting a source close to the Astana Sarawak, NST reported that a special meeting took place at the state legislative assembly this morning, presumably to deliberate the appointment of a new governor.
The source was also cited as saying that they were aware of speculations that Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar would be appointed to the position.
However, it said Astana Sarawak “has yet to make a decision” on the post.
Astro Awani reported Sarawak Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah as saying that state governor Abdul Taib Mahmud’s tenure would end on Feb 28.
“It depends on the state government and the Agong to extend his tenure or not,” he was reported as saying.
Karim also refused to elaborate on reports that Wan Junaidi may succeed Taib for the post.
“Let’s be patient. All these are just predictions, it could be true or otherwise, just like weather reports,” he added.
Resignation as Dewan Negara president
Speculations have been rife that Wan Junaidi is getting ready to assume the position of Sarawak’s governor after the 78-year-old veteran politician resigned from his post as the Dewan Negara president.
A source in Parliament told Malaysiakini that Wan Junaidi tendered his resignation earlier yesterday.
According to a report by The Malaysian Insight, the Gabungan Parti Sarawak leader is set to succeed Taib as the eighth Sarawak governor.
An aide to Wan Junaidi reportedly said the former minister may issue an official statement on the matter.
However, Wan Junaidi has yet to respond to the rumours of his resignation.
The government nominated Wan Junaidi as the Dewan Negara president in June last year, succeeding Rais Yatim.
He was an MP for seven terms since 1990 before deciding not to defend his Santubong seat in the 15th general election in 2022.
Previously, Wan Junaidi has held the positions of deputy home minister, natural resources and environment minister, and minister in the Prime Minister's Department in charge of Parliament and Law.
Fadillah mum
Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister Fadillah Yusof has also declined to comment on the matter.
Fadillah, who is also GPS chief whip, was cited as saying he would issue a statement on the matter in due time.
“On that one (comments on Wan Junaidi's supposed resignation), wait first. Wait for me (to issue a statement)," he was quoted as saying by New Straits Times today.
In related developments, Taib, who was previously in Istanbul, Turkiye, had returned to Kuching last night.
Karim said he was the one who welcomed the 88-year-old’s arrival at the airport last night.
“I see that his (health) condition has improved compared to before.
“I’m happy to see his latest development after returning from abroad,” he was quoted as saying by Harian Metro.
Taib has served as Sarawak governor for three terms, starting in 2014 after he stepped down as chief minister.
He was the fourth chief minister of Sarawak and held the post for 33 years, after succeeding his uncle Abdul Rahman Ya’kub on March 26, 1981. - Mkini
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