Sarawak aims to become Malaysian powerhouse with bold moves in green economy and sports leadership

Abang Johari addressing the Leaders with the People gathering at Kingwood Resort, Mukah on Aug 13, 2024. Photo credit: Sarawak Public Communications Unit

By Karen Bong

MUKAH, Aug 14: Sarawak aims to become a strong powerhouse in Malaysia by developing a robust green economy and advancing education to nurturing brain power and sports talents.

Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg emphasised that Sarawak has garnered global recognition due to its unique economic approach, particularly its focus on the green economy.

“We produce renewable energy from hydro, solar, and hydrogen. Our latest initiative is a pilot project in Bintulu to harness wave energy for electricity generation. This is a new path, but Sarawakians are bold in embracing innovation.

“Therefore, we must strengthen our unity. I have told the leaders in Kuala Lumpur that if Sarawak is strong, Malaysia is strong. If Sarawak advances, Malaysia advances. We carry that spirit,” he stated during a recorded speech at the Leaders with the People gathering at Kingwood Resort last night (Aug 13).

Referring to the ongoing 21st Malaysian Games (Sukma) Sarawak 2024, Abang Johari highlighted Sarawak’s willingness to host the biennial games when other states in Malaysia declined, for the future of Malaysia’s sports.

“It wasn’t Sarawak’s turn to host Sukma, but when Malaysia’s Minister of Youth and Sports, Hannah Yeoh, approached me, I told her to consult with Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah. I conveyed to Karim that if other states cannot host, Sarawak is ready to step up,” he explained.

Looking ahead, Abang Johari revealed that the federal government has sought Sarawak’s assistance in co-hosting the 2027 SEA Games, a task that will cost around RM750 million, and one Malaysia cannot afford to reject as it would be an embarrassment for the nation.

“For the country’s sake, I told Prime Minister Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim that Sarawak is willing to be a co-host for the 2027 SEA Games, as we aim to elevate the standard of sports to an international level.

“We will discuss which sports can be organised in Mukah, but one condition is non-negotiable—the opening ceremony of the SEA Games must take place in Sarawak,” he added.

With these high ambitions to build a dynamic and resilient future for Sarawak, Abang Johari reiterated his call for Sarawakians to safeguard their unity and commitment to producing outstanding Sarawakians.

“Hopefully, our dreams will come true and let Sarawak become a strong powerhouse in Malaysia,” he added. — DayakDaily