From its formation and statehood in 1963 to today, six leaders across different eras have guided Sarawak through challenges, safeguarded its autonomy, and built its homeland.
How much do you know about the leaders who shaped the Sarawak we see today?
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① Datuk Stephen Kalong Ningkan
(1963 – 1966)
First Chief Minister of Sarawak
• Ethnic pioneer: The first Iban leader to hold the position, playing a key role in Sarawak’s early path toward autonomy.
• Rights defender: Strongly upheld Sarawak’s equal status within the federation and its self-governing rights, laying the foundation for future development.
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② Dato’ Sri Penghulu Tawi Sli
(1966 – 1970)
Second Chief Minister of Sarawak
• Stable transition: Took over leadership during the early post-statehood challenges and helped stabilize governance and administration.
• Foundation building: Focused on strengthening state development and federal relations, paving the way for future progress.
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③ Tun Datuk Patinggi Haji Abdul Rahman Ya’kub
(1970 – 1981)
Third Chief Minister of Sarawak
• Modernization leader: Advanced administrative systems, infrastructure, and education development.
• Economic direction: Strengthened Sarawak’s resource-based economy and long-term development planning.
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④ Tun Pehin Sri Haji Abdul Taib Mahmud
(1981 – 2014)
Fourth Chief Minister of Sarawak
• Longest-serving leader: Led Sarawak for 33 years, steering its transformation into a modern state.
• Broad development: Drove major infrastructure projects, urban growth, and economic diversification, significantly elevating overall development.
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⑤ Tan Sri Pehin Sri Dr. Haji Adenan Satem
(2014 – 2017)
Fifth Chief Minister of Sarawak
• Identity awakening: Promoted “Sarawak for Sarawakians,” strengthening local identity and autonomy awareness.
• Rights advocacy: Pushed for education autonomy, local policies, and emphasized MA63 rights for Sarawak.
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⑥ Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Abang Openg
(2017 – present)
First Premier of Sarawak
• Elevated status: Introduced the title “Premier,” reinforcing Sarawak’s position within the federation.
• Future-focused development: Established PETROS, strengthened energy rights, and drives green energy, digital economy, and aerospace ambitions toward Sarawak’s 2030 high-income vision.
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Six generations of leadership have shaped today’s Sarawak.
The journey continues—and its future still depends on all of us.
Today’s Sarawak is built step by step by generations of leaders and people alike.
Let us continue witnessing a new era for Sarawak.
