KUCHING, Jan 19 — Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg tonight urged Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to work together with the East Malaysian state governments to drive the country forward.

He said he believes that Anwar, with his past experience in the federal government and with a clear direction, can propel Malaysia forward in the global arena.

"I believe the prime minister, with his vast experience, will be able to bring up Malaysia as a country respected by other countries,” Abang Johari said at the state banquet hosted in Anwar’s honour at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching here.

He said Sarawak would support whatever matters that are in the interest of the public.

"Rest assured, the prime minister, we are behind your government. I know that you have the experience and you helped us when you were the federal minister and deputy prime minister,” the premier said.

He said Anwar need not worry with Sarawak and Sabah asking for the implementation of MA63 to restore what has been eroded in the past.

"That is all. Not much. And I am sure the prime minister has made a number of announcements before, but tomorrow, hopefully, more will be added,” Abang Johari said.

Abang Johari reiterated Gabungan Parti Sarawak’s support for Anwar to remain as prime minister for the sake of political stability and the economy.

Anwar arrived in Kuching this afternoon for his first official visit to Sarawak since assuming the post following the 15th general election last year, and will chair the high-level Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) implementation action committee meeting at the state legislative assembly complex in Petra Jaya tomorrow morning.