Deputy Premier: RM116 bln investment must translate into better jobs, lives for Sarawakians

Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Sept 15: Sarawak’s more than RM116 billion in investments over the past five years must translate into better-paying jobs, quality education and improved living standards for its people, says Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan.

According to a report by the Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas), he said economic progress could not be measured by investment figures alone, but by whether development created a better future and wider opportunities for Sarawakians.

“Since 2021, Sarawak has recorded more than RM116 billion in domestic and foreign investments, with economic growth becoming stronger and investor confidence continuing to increase.

“After more than six decades of Malaysia’s formation, Sarawak has undergone significant changes with stronger economic growth and increasing investor confidence,” he said in a special message in conjunction with Malaysia Day 2026.

Awang Tengah said development should ultimately be reflected in quality education, better-paying employment and broader economic opportunities, including for those living outside urban areas.

“When a family, whether in the city or rural areas, can enjoy a more prosperous life, that is the Sarawak that is changing, a developed and high-income Sarawak,” he said.

He also stressed that respecting the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and the Inter-Governmental Committee (IGC) Report remained fundamental to preserving the spirit behind the formation of Malaysia.

The Deputy Premier added Malaysia’s strength was closely tied to the strength of its constituent regions and states, with Sarawak’s progress contributing to the wider federation.

“When Sarawak advances, Malaysia changes. When Sarawak prospers, Malaysia becomes more prosperous,” he said.

He called on Sarawakians to preserve unity and strengthen the spirit of togetherness that underpinned the country’s formation to ensure today’s achievements could be sustained for future generations. — DayakDaily