Premier: Sarawak’s proactive economic policies slashes poverty rate, boosts household income

Sagah (sitting centre), representing Premier Datuk Pattingi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and others in a group photo with the attendees at the launching ceremony of Scat Fair.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Oct 5: Sarawak’s inclusive socio-economic development has drastically reduced the poverty rate from 32 per cent in 1985 to 10 per cent in 2022, according to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

Abang Johari highlighted that the state has implemented extensive social safety nets to uplift the underprivileged, including welfare assistance, housing, health services, and education, contributing to a rise in household income from RM1,800 in 1995 to RM6,400 in 2022.

His speech was read by Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development Sarawak, Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, at the launch of the Sarawak Career and Training (Scat) Fair at Hikmah Exchange Event today.

Sarawak’s Digital Economy Blueprint 2030, introduced in 2017, aims to ensure the region remains competitive and prosperous by 2030.

The government is also committed to a green economy, harnessing renewable hydropower and implementing sustainable initiatives like the cascading dam concept, fostering both economic growth and human capital development.

Abang Johari emphasized that education is central to Sarawak’s human capital development, with TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) playing a key role in workforce efficiency.

In line with this, the Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development (MEITD) is supporting UNIMAS in achieving Malaysia Technical University Network (MTUN) accreditation by 2026, making it the first East Malaysian university to gain this status.

In addition, Sarawak offers free tertiary education for local students at state-owned institutions, providing further support such as assistance for computers, books, and PTPTN loan subsidies.

“By 2030, we aspire for Sarawak to flourish as a vibrant society driven by data and innovation, anchored in economic prosperity, social inclusivity, and a sustainable environment,” he said. — DayakDaily