VALUABLE BOOK: Taib takes a quick look at the book. Also seen are Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ismail Omar (right), Malaysia Ex-Policemen Association (PBPM) chairman Datuk Wan Junaidi (second left) and author of the book James Ritchie. — Photo by Jeffery Mostapa

Chief Minister reminds Sarawakians of the birth pangs of our nation

KUCHING: Chief Minister Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud has reminded Sarawakians against presuming that our independence was achieved in an easy manner.

He told them that they should not take the matter lightly as he recalled that many people of all races had sacrificed their lives to defend the state and country.

“Don’t take for granted that our nation was built just like that, by the signing of Merdeka document between Tunku Abdul Rahman and the British government. We have been tested and asked to sacrifice to show that we are prepared to defend our land.

“You cannot defend a nation unless you are prepared to serve. A group of people must be employed all the time, to be dedicated and upgraded to fight any turbulence,” he said when launching a book ‘Crimson Tide Over Borneo – Untold Police Stories’ at the Sarawak Club here yesterday.

Taib, who is state Barisan Nasional chairman, pointed out that defence job changed from time to time. While open conflicts took place in the early ages, he said threats of today might come in the form of crime.

He added that modern crime could be very organised such that police patrol might not be sufficient to curb untoward incidents.

“They (police) need to study all potential criminal activities and design their operation accordingly. This is not easy. For us all, we find it easy to pursue ordinary chores in life. Some of us make a lot of money and some of us lead a very comfortable life and are able to enjoy our wealth.

“However, always remember not to take things for granted. Joy will not be undisturbed unless you recognise someone or a group of people preparing themselves to counter any threat that can crop up,” he said.

He stressed that Malaysia would not have been formed without the sacrifice of past heroes.

He said the book, which recorded police happenings in the 60s and early 70s, represented a memento for Sarawakians.

“The book is a tribute to those who contributed tremendously towards the nation’s safety and in defending the state.

“You will find this book easy to read because the author James Ritchie is a gifted writer who tells stories in simple language,” added Taib.

Earlier, Malaysia Ex-Policemen Association (PBPM) chairman Datuk Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar called for extra funds to print more copies of the book.

“The first print of 1,000 copies cost some RM32,000. We hope some more funds are coming,” he said.

Yayasan Sarawak and Sarawak Land Consolidation and Rehabilitation Authority (Salcra) chipped in RM25,000 and RM30,000 respectively for PBPM.

Among those present were Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ismail Omar, Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Alfred Jabu, Minister of Special Functions Tan Sri Datuk Amar Adenan Satem and author of the book James Ritchie.