Premier: Sarawak pushing through with own funds as wait for Putrajaya’s will slow down projects in State

Abang Johari (centre) along with other Sarawak leaders with a cake cutting ceremony during a 'Leaders with the People' gathering at Kingwood Resort on Aug 13, 2024. Photo credit: Ukas

By DayakDaily Team

MUKAH, Aug 14: The Sarawak government is pushing ahead with its own funds to implement development projects in the State as the wait for Putrajaya’s allocation would slow down the process.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg cited the implementation of the Batang Lassa Bridge and Paloh Bridge projects, which aim to enhance connectivity to Bruit Island – a developing area in Mukah.

This, he said, will be followed with a water pipe connection project to supply water to the area.

He further mentioned that a similar pipe connection project is being implemented from Sibu to Tanjung Manis that will supply treated water to the longhouses in the area.

“We will implement this project with the hope of solving our water supply and electricity issues with our own funds from the Sarawak government.

“If we wait for Kuala Lumpur, we will suffer.

“We have to use our own funds but the funds must be sought,” he said during a ‘Pemimpin Bersama Rakyat’ dinner held in conjunction with the State Coordination Committee Meeting in Mukah last night.

Nevertheless, Abang Johari stated that with the strong unity of Sarawakians, the State government is able to implement the policies and increase its income.

This is proven when Sarawak recorded a revenue of RM13.3 billion for the year 2023 – the highest-ever revenue achieved by the State.

“Last year, it was RM13.3 billion. This year, let us pray for the revenue collection to be more than last year,” he emphasised. — DayakDaily