KUCHING (Sept 13): Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg has hinted that he could be approaching the end of his tenure, saying this may be his “final year” as the state heads towards its next election.

“Let me be frank. Perhaps this is my final year,” he was quoted as saying at a Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu Sarawak event. 

“You cannot go against nature even when your heart is young," said Abang Johari, now 76. 

"But I will make the decision when the time comes."

Abang Johari has led the Sarawak government since 2017, when he succeeded the late Tan Sri Adenan Satem as chief minister, a designation that was subsequently changed to premier.

His latest remarks come as speculation continues over the timing of the next Sarawak state election, which must be held by February next year.

In his speech, he stressed that Sarawak must continue developing disciplined young leaders to ensure leadership continuity rather than focusing on grooming a single successor.

PBB-led Gabungan Parti Sarawak, which Abang Johari chairs, has said it is ready to contest the election regardless of whether it is fought under the existing 82 state constituencies or 99 seats following the proposed redelineation exercise.