KUCHING: The Sarawak government is only involved in identifying the site of the country's tallest flagpole project and not in funding it, says Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He reiterated that the proposed flagpole was a private-sector project.
"We just identify the place for them. It is a private sector proposition, they want to contribute because this year we are celebrating the 60th anniversary (of Malaysia's formation)," he told a press conference at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly complex here on Thursday (Feb 2).
Abang Johari added that the project would go ahead despite receiving criticism.
The flagpole would reportedly be built at a cost of RM30mil next to Fort Margherita on the northern bank of the Sarawak River here.
The project had drawn flak from the Opposition, who questioned its cost and rationale.
In a recent statement responding to the criticism, the Sarawak Premier's Office said the project was funded by the private sector as a corporate social responsibility contribution in conjunction with the 60th anniversary of Sarawak as a party to the formation of Malaysia.
The statement also said that the project would include developing the designated site and its vicinity to become part of Kuching's tourism infrastructure.
