KAMPUNG BINTANGOR – Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, has dismissed public speculation surrounding the presence of a woman frequently seen accompanying him at official functions.
The Premier clarified that the woman is none other than his daughter, Dayang Norjihan, and not a new partner as some in the community have assumed following the passing of his wife, the late Puan Sri Juma’ani Tuanku Bujang, on 23 June.
Speaking during the official opening of the Datuk Amar Juma’ani Bridge in Kampung Bintangor last night, Abang Johari addressed the issue directly.
“Wherever I go for official events, I ask my daughter to accompany me and help. But I hear some people saying there’s a ‘replacement’ already,” he said, responding to whispers circulating in the public.
He explained that since the death of his beloved wife, his daughter has taken on the role of accompanying him to various events to provide personal support.
Dayang Norjihan, 43, is the second child of Abang Johari and Puan Sri Juma’ani. The couple also has a son, Abang Abdillah Izzarim, 45.
Abang Johari revealed that Dayang Norjihan first began accompanying him to a public event in Miri a few weeks ago, shortly after her mother’s passing at the Normah Medical Centre, Kuching, at the age of 76.
He said the speculation likely came from those who misunderstood the nature of his daughter’s supportive presence at his side.
The Premier urged the public not to jump to conclusions and hoped people would show understanding and respect during this period of personal loss. — UKAS
