Premier: S’wak must shift from O&G to ‘brain power’-driven economy, stronger global ties

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By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, May 4: Sarawak must transition from an economy that relied on finite natural resources such as oil and gas (O&G) towards a ‘brain power’-driven one supported by enhanced global connectivity to unlock new international opportunities.

In a Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) report, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg also stressed the importance of prudent financial management, which includes the establishment of the Sarawak Sovereign Wealth Fund that has reached RM8.6 billion as of last year and will remain untouched for 20 years to ensure long-term economic stability.

“If we are strong in terms of ‘brain power’ and manage our finances wisely, Sarawak’s future will remain secure despite global economic uncertainties,” he said at the Anak Sarawak Dinner in Manchester, England, on Sunday (May 3).

He also stressed the need for the State to strengthen its international networks by enhancing global connectivity, including establishing its own airline, AirBorneo, and reinforcing the role of strategic ports such as Bintulu Port.

Elaborating further, he said these are crucial in positioning Sarawak as a strategic hub linking trade routes between the West and the East, particularly in the context of Asean’s economic growth and the evolving green technology landscape.

He also touched on Sarawak’s strong green energy production potential, citing green methanol as an example, which is expected to become a future fuel for the global shipping industry.

“With our strategic location and shift towards green technology, Sarawak has the potential to become a key player in the region’s new economy,” he said.

Also present were Deputy Prime Minister and Patron of Sarawak Volunteers, Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof; Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian; Works Minister Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi; Malaysia’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland Datuk Zakri Jaafar; Sarawak Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki; Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Legal, MA63, and State-Federal Relations) Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali; and other guests. — DayakDaily

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