The government will come down heavily on those wanting to break up the very strong relationship between the Sarawak state and federal governments.

Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, in giving the warning, said all agencies under the Home Ministry and Rela would be at the forefront to thwart any such attempt.

He said this at a Hari Raya gathering organised by the state Rela at the Sarawak Indoor Stadium last night and which was also attended by Chief Minister Adenan Satem and about 7,000 people, mostly Rela members statewide.

The deputy premier said he was very confident the already close relationship was going to be even more close now.

"Our Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak, he has very high regard and confidence in the leadership of Adenan.

"We, the people, should zealously guard such close relationship which is very vital for the state and country to progress and prosper," he said.

He also added the spirit of being Malaysians too should be strongly protected and strengthened by the people of Sarawak, Sabah, and the peninsula, for greater prosperity of the country.

Meanwhile, on the coming state election, Zahid also expressed confidence that the state Barisan Nasional government under Adenan would receive the tacit support of the majority of the people.

"But we at the federal level, together with state and federal cabinet members, corporate leaders, (and) prominent politicians will come to assist as well," he said.

Ahmad Zahid later announced a grant of RM2 million for the state Rela to match a similar amount which Adenan had pledged earlier in his speech.

He also promised to visit Sarawak more often and in particular its rural areas and to bring more development fund and grants as well.

"It is our hope the people will know how to reciprocate when the government needs them to do so," he said.

- Bernama