Deputy Premier: Chinese community key pillar of Sarawak’s progress

KUCHING (Feb 16): The Chinese community has long been an integral pillar of Sarawak’s economic, social and cultural development, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.

In his Chinese New Year message, Uggah said the community’s contributions in business, education and community leadership continue to strengthen Sarawak’s resilience and progress.

“In Sarawak, this festive season once again reflects the strength of our unity in diversity. Through open houses and shared celebrations, we continue to strengthen the bonds that unite us as one Sarawakian family,” he said.

He added that the Year of the Fire Horse symbolises energy, courage and determination — qualities that resonate strongly with Sarawak’s journey of transformation and forward momentum under the leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

“Under the leadership of YAB Premier, a leader for all races, let us move forward together in the spirit of the Fire Horse — bold, hardworking and forward-looking,” he said.

Highlighting key initiatives, Uggah said the Sarawak Budget 2026 allocates RM9.3 billion for development, with strong emphasis on rural areas, while RM640 million has been set aside for the Sumbangan Keperluan Asas (SKAS) to help ease the rising cost of living for families, senior citizens and single individuals.

He added that Sarawak continues to prioritise education, including free tertiary education and STEM studies at Sarawak-owned universities, stressing that “our people are our greatest asset”.

Calling for unity, Uggah urged Sarawakians to move forward together to realise the Post-Covid Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030) and build a prosperous, inclusive and environmentally sustainable future.

“May the Year of the Fire Horse bring renewed energy, harmony and prosperity to your families and communities,” he said, wishing all celebrating Chinese New Year good health, happiness and success.