Nanta welcomed a proposal by Sarawak premier and GPS chairman Abang Johari Openg to attract more Chinese applicants by improving state civil service salaries.

However, a fairer recruitment system was needed to support the plan so that the various ethnic groups in Sarawak would get equal opportunity in the state public service, he said.

Nanta said the Chinese and Dayak communities feel marginalised over unequal employment opportunities.

“I recommend that the Sarawak government establish a quota system at the recruitment level, which is where the injustice usually begins,” he wrote in a Facebook posting.

“This results in a domino effect, apparent in the low percentage of involvement among other ethnic groups and non-Malays who hold high positions in the administration of the federal and state governments.”

However, he did note an increase in ethnic diversity among civil servants since Abang Johari assumed office.

“We can also see appointments from ethnic groups and non-Malays who are beginning to be entrusted to steer the highest positions, both in the public administration of Sarawak and government-related companies,” said Nanta.