Laws passed recently a game changer, will enhance Sarawak’s financial position: Abang Jo

KUCHING: The laws passed in the just concluded State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting will be a game changer to Sarawak and will strengthen the state’s fiscal position.

Premier Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg thanked the assemblypersons for giving their support to the approval of two landmark bills, namely Environment (Reduction of Greenhouse Gases Emission) Bill and Sarawak Ombudsman Bill. And also the Distribution of Gas (Amendment) Bill, and Electricity (Amendment) Bill.

“Sarawak is the first state in the country to pass a bill on the environment and this is for us to protect our rights and add value to our resources while at the same time to focus on carbon trading.

“The laws on gas will allow the management of the distribution of gas with Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (PETROS) as the gas aggregator. Next, is the law on the development of electricity.

“This means that in the DUN, we are able to present laws that defend our sovereignty and the way we manage our economy,” he said at the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) Backbenchers Night at Sheraton Kuching Hotel last night (Nov 29).

Abang Johari, who is also the GPS chairman, said the laws on ombudsman demonstrate the state’s seriousness in upholding integrity.

“We can see that during the DUN sitting this time, there are only two opposition (members). And the others have recognised GPS’ struggle all this while,” he said, adding that even Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim thanked and acknowledged GPS for contributing to the political stability of the Madani government.

“For us (GPS), we will maintain our cooperation and continue to develope Sarawak. We have a lot to do up till 2030.

“Beyond 2030, there will be other challenges emerging. But what is important is let us make Sarawak developed and the first step is for us to reinforce our strength in energy, and the rest will be consequential,” he said.

Abang Johari hoped that the state’s revenue in 2024 would surpass this year’s amount.

“Our estimated revenue for 2024 is RM12.7 billion. This year, we broke the record of 2022, and  I am confident we will achieve the same next year,” he said.

Among those present were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nasar, GPS DUN chief whip Datuk Ibrahim Baki, and Tamin assemblyman Christopher Gira Sambang, who is also the event’s organising chairman.