Abang Johari speaking at the parade in conjunction with the TYT's 80th birthday at Padang Merdeka on Oct 10, 2026. Photo credit: Sarawak Information Department (Japen)

Advertisement

By Amanda L

KUCHING, Oct 10: Negotiations between Sarawak and the federal government to establish a permanent formula for the State’s annual special grant remain ongoing, even as Sarawak’s federal allocation rises to RM16.2 billion for 2027.

Speaking at the parade in conjunction with the 80th birthday of Sarawak Governor (TYT) Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar at Padang Merdeka today, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg welcomed the RM1.1 billion increase over the RM15.1 billion allocated for 2026, attributing it to continuous engagement between both governments.

Advertisement

“Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced yesterday that the Federal allocation for Sarawak has been increased to RM16.2 billion. We express our sincere gratitude to the Federal Government,” he said.

Referring to the Prime Minister’s Malaysia Day announcement on Sept 16, the Premier also expressed appreciation for the hike in Sarawak’s Interim Special Grant, which will rise from RM600 million to RM1.5 billion starting in 2026.

Abang Johari emphasised that cooperation between the federal and State governments will continue to be built on mutual understanding, solidarity and full compliance with the Federal Constitution and the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63). — DayakDaily