Sarawak Budget 2027 with surplus of RM246 million, projected revenue of RM15.091 billion

KUCHING, 12 Oct: Sarawak is expected to record a budget surplus of RM246 million through Budget 2027, with state revenue projected at RM15.091 billion.

Sarawak Premier, Datuk Tinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, said the budget was drafted based on prudent principles, with a focus on strengthening the state's financial position and sustainable development.

"For the regular expenditure of RM14.845 billion allocated includes RM5.747 billion for management expenditure and RM9.098 billion for Development Fund Account.

"For development spending, the state government allocated RM10.098 billion, an increase of RM826 million or nine percent over the original estimate of development spending this year", he said.

He said this when presenting the Sarawak Budget 2027 in the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) today.

According to Brother Johari, the development allocation will be used to finance infrastructure projects, improve public facilities and meet the needs of people across Sarawak.

"Our priority is to ensure that each allocation directly benefits the people, especially in terms of basic infrastructure, education, health, economic and social welfare", he said.

In addition, RM300 million will be channelled to the Sarawak Sovereign Wealth Future Fund (SSWFF) to ensure that a portion of state revenues is saved for future generations.

Brother Johari said the establishment and strengthening of the fund proves the seriousness of the state government's strategic financial planning and not just focusing on current needs.

"We are not only thinking about development today, but also the future of Sarawak's children and generations to come", he said.

Of the total management expenditure of RM5.747 billion, RM2.024 billion or 35 per cent was allocated for supplies and services, while RM1.976 billion or 34 per cent was allocated for grants and fixed payments.

A total of RM1.421 billion or 25 per cent was allocated for staff emoluments, plus RM134 million for asset acquisition and RM192 million for other management expenses.

The RM246 million budget surplus is expected to achieve a projected revenue of RM15.091 billion compared with the normal total expenditure of RM14.845 billion.

The achievement, he said, demonstrates the state's ability to manage revenues and spending in a balanced manner, despite global economic uncertainty.

"This surplus does not mean that we are cutting development spending, but rather it shows that we can carry out development responsibly without compromising the financial stability of the state", he said. - TVS