KUCHING, March 24 ― Elizabeth Loh has become the first Chinese woman to hold a permanent secretary post in Sarawak.

In a Facebook post today, Deputy Premier of Sarawak Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian conveyed ‘heartiest congratulations’ to Loh, who was previously the secretary of Padawan Municipal Council (MPP).

"She is now the permanent secretary of my Ministry of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Sarawak (MPHLGH).

"My third permanent secretary since I was appointed as the minister in 2016; (she comes in) after Datu Bakri Zaini (2016-2020), Datu Antonio Kahti Galis (2020-2023).

"Puan Elizabeth is the first Chinese ‘lady’ permanent secretary (for a ministry) in Sarawak.

"I am looking forward to seeing more Sarawakian ladies break the glass ceiling,” said Dr Sim.

The letter of appointment was presented to Loh by State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki at Wisma Bapa Malaysia here on Thursday.

Loh served as MPP secretary from May 2018 until January 31 this year.

Meanwhile at the same event, Sirai Daha also received his letter of appointment as the permanent secretary to the Ministry of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development.

He is taking over Datu Edwin Abit, who has retired. ― Borneo Post