13 reports study Geran Prime Minister's Chair strengthening Sarawak policy

KUCHING, 23 Sept: A total of 13 study reports under the Prime Minister's Chair Grant were submitted to various relevant agencies to help strengthen policy, improve work processes and support Sarawak development planning.

Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the research project covers mineral resources, land administration, registration of marine fibres as well as climate change and floods.

In addition, the study also involved the housing, tourism, urban infrastructure and decision support technologies sectors.

"I see this program as an important knowledge investment. But I want to emphasize one thing that research cannot end up just as a report on the shelf", he said.

Johari said so at the inaugural closing dinner of Innovation and Integrity Surveyed Soil Day (HIITS) 2026 here, today.

According to him, research findings should be tested and integrated, if appropriate translated into actual policies, technical standards, systems, pioneering projects or solutions.

Meanwhile, Sarawak Director of Soil and Surveys, Datu Awang Zamhari Awang Mahmood said the results report of the Department of Soil and Survey (JTS) Satellite Laboratory initiative - Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) was to help agencies improve their quality of work.

"The results of the 13 study projects should be translated into actions that can be utilized by Departments and related agencies in strengthening policy, improving work processes and supporting Sarawak development planning
based on the findings and scores of each study", he said.

Awang Zamhari said the study was carried out by state government departments and agencies with special expertise to investigate specific issues in more depth.

Among the agencies that will receive the report, he said, are the Ministry of Natural Resources and Urban Development; North Kuching City Council; Ministry of Public Health; Housing and Local Government of Sarawak.

In addition, the Sarawak Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industries and Performing Arts; Sarawak Department of Agriculture; Department of Irrigation and Drainage and JTS.