Economy is tough, no birthday ads needed, Sarawak premier says

Sarawak Premier Abang Johari Openg has called on friends and well-wishers not to spend on newspapers advertisements for his 72nd birthday today.

A statement from the Office of the Premier of Sarawak said that while Abang Johari appreciated the good intentions, he did not want his friends and well-wishers to spend on such advertisements in view of the current economic situation and the need to contain inflationary pressure.

"Nevertheless, he would like to thank all well-wishers for their kind thoughts on his 72nd birthday," it said.

Abang Johari made a similar request last year, telling those who planned to place advertisements to congratulate him to instead channel the funds to the state Covid-19 disaster trust fund.

Abang Johari was born on Aug 4, 1950 in Limbang, Sarawak. He is the son of the state’s first governor, Abang Openg Abang Sapiee.