SELANGAU: Sarawakians have been told to choose a responsible government that will put the people first.
"I agree with Sarawak Premier (Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg) that the government that is chosen must be the one which is responsible, ot a government that cancels projects but a government that benefits the people," said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob at the launching of the RM588mil Selangau section of the Pan-Borneo Highway project on Monday (Nov 14).
Ismail Sabri said that was one of the differences between Pakatan Harapan and Barisan Nasional.
"The difference is that they cancelled projects but we increased allocations for the benefit of the rakyat.
"I agree with the Premier that we should not make the wrong decision. If we choose the wrong government, the one that will suffer are the people.
So, I hope you will make the right decision for us to ensure that the government that we form is one that is capable of looking after the interests of the people," he said, adding that during Pakatan's 22-month reign, they cancelled four bridge projects and Phase 2 of the Pan-Borneo Highway.
Ismail Sabri said if Barisan wins GE-15 and he becomes prime minister, Sarawak's development would be his top priority, adding that as MA63 special committee chairman, he would ensure all unresolved matters are settled.
At a press conference later, Ismail Sabri said Barisan's cooperation pact with Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) was ironclad.
"We have a long history of understanding each other and we understand the aspirations of Sarawakians.
Later, Abang Johari quipped that "both sides are now dating and will soon get married (akad nikah)".
