The Federal Government respects the uniqueness of the stand of Sarawakians even though it is sometimes different from the people of the states of Peninsular Malaysia, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said here today.

He said although the people of Sarawak held parochial sentiments, there was no doubt that their loyalty to the nation was still intact.

"There's definitely the 'Ngap Sayot' spirit and the spirit of going all out, there's definitely a difference but at heart we're all the same," he said when opening Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu's (PBB) 13th General Assembly here.

"I realise the need to value, appreciate and understand our differences," he said.

He said the differences did not prevent the state and central governments from forging close ties all this while.

Najib, who is also Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman, also recorded his appreciation to Sarawak Chief Minister Tan Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud who had shown consistent support to him since he started helming the nation.

He said under the leadership of Taib, who is also PBB president, BN had scored a landslide victory, winning of 25 out of the 31 parliamentary seats in Sarawak in the 13th General Election held in May.

The appointment of seven ministers and four deputy ministers from the state in the new federal cabinet following the polls was a sign of recognition for the excellent support shown to BN, he added.

Najib noted that the big victory was also a good platform for the federal and state governments to combine their efforts in implementing development, particularly in Sarawak's rural areas.

He also praised PBB for maintaining its stability which enabled the party to lead efforts to further develop the state.

Najib said he valued stability in each of the BN component parties as this was the cornerstone for them to achieve success.

He admitted each (of the component parties) had their own challenges but these needed to be addressed by their respective members with wisdom.

"We must manage our affairs in the party well and only then will the people respect us," he said.