Abang Johari

Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Abang Openg
Born	Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Abang Openg (1950-08-04) August 4, 1950 Limbang, Sarawak, Malaysia
Occupation	Politician
Years active	1981–present
Known for	Sixth Premier of Sarawak; President of Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu; founder of Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS)

Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Abang Openg (born 4 August 1950), widely recognized as Abang Johari or Abang Jo, is a Malaysian political leader currently holding the position of the sixth Premier of Sarawak since 2017. He serves as the president of Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu and is the youngest son of Sarawak's inaugural governor, Abang Openg. Since 2021, he has been the representative for the Gedong seat in the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly.

Originating from a politically influential family in Limbang, Abang Johari obtained his MBA from Brunel University of London. His political journey commenced in 1981 when he was elected as the assemblyman for Satok, a constituency he represented for forty years before transitioning to Gedong in 2021. In January 2017, he took over from Adenan Satem as chief minister, a post that was subsequently rebranded as premier.

A prominent figure in Sarawak’s political landscape, Abang Johari spearheaded the establishment of Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) in 2018 following a split from the Barisan Nasional coalition. Under his leadership, GPS achieved a dominant victory by securing 76 out of 82 seats in the 2021 state election. On the national stage, GPS played a pivotal role in supporting Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s unity administration after the 2022 general election. His governance style is marked by centrist to centre-right regionalism, integrating social democratic and communitarian principles, with an emphasis on inclusive progress, political stability, and strengthening Sarawak’s self-governance.

Early life and education

Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Abang Openg was born on 4 August 1950 at government housing near Bukit Tasik Mas in Limbang, Sarawak. He is the tenth and youngest child of Abang Openg Abang Sapiee and Dayang Masniah Abdul Rahman. At the time of his birth, his father was serving as Limbang’s district officer. Due to recurring health issues during his infancy, his name was modified to include "Zohari," reflecting local cultural traditions.

Shortly after Abang Johari turned one year old, his family relocated to Kuching when his father was appointed acting Resident—the first Malay to occupy a role formerly held exclusively by Europeans. His early schooling took place at Merpati Jepang Primary School in Kuching, followed by attendance at St. Thomas' Anglican Secondary School from 1962 to 1967 before transferring to St. Joseph's Secondary School, a La Sallian Catholic institution.

In 1963, his father became Sarawak’s first Yang di-Pertua Negeri and played an instrumental part during Sarawak’s integration into Malaysia. Abang Johari was 19 when his father passed away in 1969.

His lineage includes distinguished Sarawakian personalities such as Datu Patinggi Haji Abdul Gapor, a governor predating the Brooke era, along with Datu Patinggi Ali and Raja Jarum. His paternal grandfather, Abang Sapiee Abang Omar, connects him to Kuching’s heritage.

Early career

Following his education, Abang Johari began working as an executive officer with Malaysia Airlines. He later attained a Master of Business Management degree from Henley College at Brunel University.

Political beginnings

During the early 1970s, various youth groups in Sarawak came together to establish the Sarawak United National Youth Organisation (SABERKAS), with Abang Johari playing a role in this initiative. He also became a member of the Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), an influential component of the Barisan Nasional (BN) alliance. His official entry into politics was marked in 1977 when he assumed the position of PBB youth chief.

Following the resignation of the Satok assemblyman in 1981, Chief Minister Abdul Rahman Ya'kub invited Abang Johari to stand in the resulting by-election. Although initially reluctant and proposing his elder brother as a candidate, he was encouraged by family support to participate. He successfully secured the seat and became a member of the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly. The subsequent year, he was appointed as principal political secretary to Chief Minister Abdul Taib Mahmud.

Ministerial appointments

After securing re-election in 1983, Abang Johari was designated Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Community Development. By 1987, he had advanced to become Minister of Industrial Development within Abdul Taib Mahmud's administration. On 29 August 1998, during the Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) triennial delegates’ conference, Abang Johari was elected deputy president of PBB representing the former Bumiputera Party quota, defeating Adenan Satem with a vote tally of 373 to 268. The election, conducted under tense circumstances, was overseen by Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad. Party leadership described the contest as primarily a family matter, with Taib denying any endorsement of candidates.

In 2000, Abang Johari took on the role of Minister of Tourism and successfully defended his legislative seat in the 2001 state elections. He transitioned to Minister of Housing in 2004 and maintained this position following the 2006 election. Within two months, he secured a significant federal funding allocation amounting to RM200 million for affordable housing projects under both the Eighth and Ninth Malaysia Plans. He launched the People's Friendly Housing Scheme (RMR) to assist rural communities in constructing homes and promoted collaboration between public and private sectors through specialized committees that influenced housing development policies. Between 2009 and 2011, he served as Minister of Housing and Urbanisation before returning to lead the Tourism Ministry after the 2011 election.

During his tenure as Tourism Minister, Abang Johari tackled challenges related to disruptions within the aviation sector that impacted tourist accessibility, including changes among airline operators and the Malaysia Airlines-AirAsia share swap arrangement. He advocated for transforming MASwings into a regional airline catering to Sarawak, Sabah, the BIMP-EAGA region, and other select Asian destinations. Recognizing calls from stakeholders for a structured aviation policy, he emphasized its importance in addressing logistical obstacles and enhancing regional economic development. Additionally, he highlighted eco-tourism opportunities at sites such as Bakun, Batang Ai, and Murum dams, while supporting international conferences and events through the Sarawak Convention Bureau (currently Business Event Sarawak) and venues like the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching.

When Abdul Taib stepped down as Chief Minister in 2014, Abang Johari was viewed as a possible successor; however, Adenan Satem was appointed instead. The two shared a long-standing personal relationship. Following Barisan Nasional’s triumph in 2016, Abang Johari was named Deputy Chief Minister and took on responsibilities including Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture as well as Minister of Housing and Urbanisation.

Chief Minister / Premier of Sarawak (2017–present)

On 11 January 2017, approximately six months following the state election, Adenan passed away due to a heart attack at the Sarawak Heart Centre located in Kota Samarahan. The announcement of his demise was made by Abang Johari during a press briefing, where he also shared funeral arrangements. In the aftermath of Adenan's death, potential successors included Abang Johari, Douglas Uggah Embas, and Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, who were all deputy presidents within the ruling party. The party opted to postpone naming a new chief minister during the official mourning period.

Subsequently, Abang Johari received unanimous endorsement from PBB leadership and was formally appointed as chief minister by Governor Abdul Taib Mahmud. His oath-taking ceremony took place at the Astana on 13 January 2017. The leadership transition proceeded smoothly, with senior figures such as Awang Tengah, James Jemut Masing, and Uggah lending their support to Abang Johari and committing to uphold Adenan’s 53 policy initiatives, including those related to oil royalties. Upon assuming office, Abang Johari signaled his intention to maintain much of the existing cabinet composition. In May 2017, roughly five months into his administration, he named Awang Tengah Ali Hasan as deputy chief minister, filling a post that had remained vacant since his own appointment.

Foreign policy

In March 2017, during his inaugural overseas trip as chief minister, Abang Johari led a delegation from Sarawak to Beijing with the aim of strengthening tourism and economic ties. A significant achievement from this visit was the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Sarawak Economic Development Corporation and Beijing Glory International Culture Development Co Ltd. This agreement focused on cooperation in establishing Kuching as a regional hub for China Express Airlines within Southeast Asia, managing hotels and national parks, expanding tourism links with China, South Korea, and Japan, as well as rebranding Sarawak’s tourism offerings. The itinerary also included visits to Kunming, Hong Kong, and Guangzhou to explore additional collaborative opportunities.

At the "Lan Berambeh Anak Sarawak UK-Edition" event held in London on 3 May 2025, Abang Johari unveiled a development roadmap extending through 2035 and inaugurated an annual international engagement platform designed to connect with the Sarawakian diaspora while enhancing global recognition.

Economic policy

Abang Johari’s economic approach has prioritized increasing state revenue, diversifying economic activities, and promoting sustainable growth. Between 2017 and 2024, Sarawak’s state revenue grew from RM5.6 billion to RM14.2 billion, with projections reaching RM20 billion by 2025. This financial expansion facilitated larger budgets and enabled state-driven projects. To lessen dependence on federal funds, the Development Bank of Sarawak (DBOS) was established as a state-owned institution focused on financing infrastructure.

The diversification agenda targeted high-value sectors; from 2021 to 2023, approved investments in Sarawak totaled RM21.5 billion, generating approximately 11,000 employment opportunities. Priority industries included renewable energy—particularly hydropower and hydrogen—semiconductors, aerospace manufacturing, and digital services. Additionally, a sovereign wealth fund was created to manage surplus revenues and support future investments.

The Sarawak Digital Economy Strategy concentrated on enhancing digital infrastructure, fostering e-commerce expansion, and encouraging innovation. Central to the green energy plan was hydrogen production and export initiatives involving partnerships with countries such as Japan. Sustainable principles were embedded in infrastructure projects spanning 31,000 km of roads, major bridge constructions, airport modernization efforts, and expanded utility services.

Support mechanisms for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) encompassed access to financing, skills development programs, and broader market opportunities. Workforce policies emphasized aligning education with industry demands alongside introducing free education starting in 2025.

The Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 outlined a framework for sustainable and inclusive economic growth. According to assessments by the World Bank, Sarawak attained high-income status ahead of its original target year of 2030. Economic planning under this strategy emphasized resilience and adaptability in response to global uncertainties.

Between 4 and 5 May 2025 in Toulouse, France, Abang Johari witnessed the signing of a joint venture agreement between Malaysia’s Aircraft Inspection, Repair & Overhaul Depot (AIROD) and France’s SATYS for aerospace surface treatment services supporting Sarawak’s aviation industry. Discussions with ATR and Airbus covered plans for adopting energy-efficient turboprop aircraft for rural air routes alongside technology transfer initiatives and workforce training programs.

On 7 May in Abu Dhabi, he observed a strategic collaboration agreement between Bintulu Port Holdings Berhad and AD Ports Group focusing on maritime logistics cooperation, infrastructure enhancement, and trade facilitation efforts. The Premier also studied operational models at Zayed International Airport to inform future development of Sarawak’s logistics infrastructure.

Environmental and climate policy

On 1 May 2025, Abang Johari engaged with representatives from the International Hydropower Association (IHA) and the Global Renewables Alliance (GRA) to further Sarawak's renewable energy projects. In addition to its focus on hydropower, Sarawak is advancing initiatives in solar energy, hydrogen production, and cutting-edge energy storage solutions, all in line with international carbon reduction targets. The state has also initiated a review of carbon levy frameworks from Scotland and the UK to develop a fair revenue-sharing approach that supports industries such as carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS).

Social policy

Under Abang Johari's guidance, Sarawak has introduced social policies that foster religious inclusivity, protect indigenous rights, enhance social welfare, improve education, and develop infrastructure. In 2017, the administration launched the Other Religious Affairs Unit (UNIFOR) to assist non-Muslim populations. Chaired by Deputy Premier Douglas Uggah Embas, UNIFOR oversees state funding for diverse places of worship and promotes interfaith harmony. Abang Johari has highlighted the importance of religious freedom, opposing the implementation of national hudud laws due to concerns about discrimination against non-Muslims. He also confirmed that non-Muslims in Sarawak are permitted to use the term "Allah," emphasizing that ultimate judgment rests with God. The UNIFOR Complex in Kuching, a multifunctional social and religious center, is scheduled to open in early 2025.

Key social assistance programs include RM500 medical aid for elderly citizens, RM1,000 grants for newborns, RM450 post-natal support, basic needs subsidies, RM1,200 monthly allowances for tertiary students, along with complimentary laptops and book vouchers. Beginning in 2026, Sarawak plans to provide tuition-free university education at state institutions without any bonding or restrictions on student mobility.

At the 2025 ASEAN Sarawak Business and Economic Forum, Abang Johari was honored with the 2024 World Outstanding Muslim Leader of the Year Award.

Education policy

Sarawak continues to use English as the primary language of instruction while focusing on elevating education quality and accessibility. Infrastructure improvements have targeted reducing rural-urban disparities by upgrading roads, bridges, water supply, and expanding electrification. The government also supports growth in the digital economy and green economy sectors.

On 30 April 2025, during visits to London and Cambridge, Abang Johari witnessed the signing of a service agreement between Cambridge University Press and Assessment and Swinburne Innovation Malaysia. This partnership will facilitate standardised testing for Sarawak’s Dual Language Programme (DLP), starting with Year 6 pupils in October 2025. The following day, Abang Johari met with Larry Kramer, president of the London School of Economics (LSE), to discuss potential collaborations in public policy, economics, and sustainability. These initiatives are designed to align Sarawak’s education framework with international standards and strengthen policy formulation capabilities.

Technology and innovation policy

In September 2017, Abang Johari traveled to Estonia to gain insights into its advanced digital framework, which includes comprehensive nationwide high-speed internet delivered through underground fiber-optic cables, decentralized service models, and unified electronic payment systems. Estonia’s approach has been instrumental in establishing highly efficient e-government operations. Lessons drawn from this visit contributed to improvements in the Sarawak Pay system and broader digital governance strategies, while also paving the way for partnerships in digital public services, intelligent infrastructure, and technology-enhanced administration.

In April 2025, Abang Johari introduced KETEQ AI in Cardiff, Wales—recognized as the world’s first AI-enabled power conversion device entirely engineered by Sarawakian talent. This achievement, showcased at the CSA Catapult facility, represents a key milestone within the Sarawak Semiconductor Roadmap 2030. It highlights Sarawak’s transition from a resource-dependent economy toward a knowledge-based model with an increasing emphasis on deep-technology advancements.

Constitutional and institutional policy

Following the 2018 general election, the state government under Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) pursued enhanced autonomy. A notable accomplishment was Sarawak securing sole authority over its natural gas commerce, signifying an important step toward achieving greater fiscal independence.

Indigenous and minority rights

The administration led by Abang Johari placed significant emphasis on safeguarding Native Customary Rights (NCR) land by launching a land survey initiative in 2020 aimed at officially recording indigenous land ownership. Additionally, the government promoted cultural preservation among ethnic communities such as the Dayak people and Malay people, exemplified by the establishment of the Wisma Melayu Sarawak complex.

Personal life

Abang Johari wed Juma'ani Tuanku Bujang on 26 February 1977. Juma'ani is the daughter of Tuanku Bujang, who served as Sarawak's second governor. Their families share historical ties through maternal lineage connecting Tuanku Bujang and Abang Johari’s father, Abang Openg. The couple first met during a family gathering held in Kuching prior to their marriage. They have two children: a son named Abang Abdillah Izzarim and a daughter named Dayang Norjihan.

Abang Johari enjoys traditional home-prepared dishes, with "masak merah" chicken briyani rice being a particular favorite. A passionate football fan, he supports Manchester United and has attended matches at their home ground, Old Trafford. He frequently employs football analogies to emphasize leadership principles such as teamwork and collective accountability, likening Sarawak’s economic transformation to Manchester United’s resurgence under manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

His son, Abang Abdillah Izzarim, works as a commercial and private pilot and is engaged in technology and business initiatives throughout ASEAN and China. He holds the position of executive chairman at AIZO Group Bhd (previously Minetech Resources Bhd), having increased his ownership stake to 16.338%, successfully steering the company back to profitability after enduring nine consecutive quarters of losses.

In March 2022, Abang Johari was diagnosed with COVID-19, experiencing mild symptoms and completing five days of home isolation under Category 2A.

In June 2025, Juma'ani passed away at age 76 due to health-related complications.

Election outcomes

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Malaysian honours

• • Commander of the Order of the Defender of the Realm (PMN) – awarded the title Tan Sri (2021)
  • Holder of the 17th Yang di-Pertuan Agong Installation Medal
• • Knight Grand Commander of the Order of the Star of Hornbill Sarawak (DP) – conferred Datuk Patinggi (2017)
  • Knight Commander of the Order of the Star of Hornbill Sarawak (DA) – bestowed Datuk Amar (2008)
  • Knight Commander of the Most Exalted Order of the Star of Sarawak (PNBS) – honored as Dato Sri (1990)
  • Companion of the Most Exalted Order of the Star of Sarawak (JBS) (1985)
• • Grand Commander of the Order of Kinabalu (SPDK) – entitled Datuk Seri Panglima (2024)

International honours

• • First Class of the Order of Setia Negara Brunei (PSNB) – awarded Dato Seri Setia (2024)
• • 2nd Class of the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star (2025)

Honorary degrees

• • Awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Business and Management by University of Technology Sarawak in 2017
  • Conferred an Honorary Doctorate in Economic Development from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak in 2019
• • Received an Honorary Doctorate from Swinburne University of Technology in 2019

References

Sarawak State Legislative Assembly

Year	Constituency	Candidate		Votes	Percentage	Rival(s)		Votes	Percentage	Ballots cast	Margin	Voter turnout
1981	N06 Satok		(PBB)	N/A	N/A	N/A		N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
1983			(PBB)	N/A	86.20%		Abang Ariffin Abang Sebli (BERSATU)	N/A	13.80%	N/A	N/A	N/A
1987			(PBB)	N/A	69.62%		Wan Ali Tengku Madhi (PERMAS)	N/A	29.78%	N/A	N/A	N/A
							N/A (BERSATU)	N/A	0.60%
1991			(PBB)	5,550	84.37%		Faisal Othman (PERMAS)	1,028	15.63%	6,578	4,522	62.50%
1996			(PBB)	6,628	89.13%		Sharkawi Faisal Othman (IND)	808	10.87%	7,436	5,820	60.91%
2001			( PBB)	4,830	71.02%		Zulrusdi Mohamad Hol ( PKR)	1,971	28.98%	6,801	2,859	63.01%