Kuching: Recent remarks by Datuk Amar Sim Kui Hian, suggesting that Sarawakians who do not return home are “not truly successful,” are deeply troubling and completely detached from the realities of countless hardworking Sarawakians.
Many Sarawakians did not leave the state by choice, but out of necessity. They left because decent job opportunities were scarce, wages were uncompetitive, and career pathways were limited.
They left to earn an honest living, to support their families, and to secure a future when remaining in Sarawak was simply not viable. To now dismiss their sacrifices shows a profound lack of empathy.
Over the years, many of these Sarawakians have built lives overseas. They have children in school, long-term careers, mortgages, and obligations rooted in the places they live.
Returning is not as simple as buying a plane ticket. Without job security or assurance that their skills and experience will be recognised and fairly rewarded, it is unreasonable to expect them to uproot their entire lives on demand.
Sarawakians abroad continue to contribute meaningfully to the state. Many send money back home, while some choose to invest in Sarawak.
All this was done while they proudly carry their Sarawakian identity wherever they go. Many even enhance Sarawak’s reputation through their professional achievements on the global stage, such as Henry Golding and Zee Avi. Their success should be recognised, not belittled.
If Sarawak truly wants its talents to return, the responsibility lies squarely with the government to create conditions that make returning realistic and sustainable.
This means competitive wages, merit-based opportunities, professional recognition and a supportive ecosystem that allows returning Sarawakians to rebuild their lives with dignity.
While Sim Kui Hian chooses to downplay these sacrifices, DAP Sarawak recognises the struggles of Sarawakians, understands the structural realities they face, and remains committed to building a Sarawak where no one is forced to leave just to survive.
Let us build a Sarawak where those who wish to return are welcomed with real opportunities.
Michael Kong Feng Nian
DAP Sarawak Assistant Publicity Secretary
11 January 2026
