Sarawak formulating new Public-Private Partnership Masterplan 2026–2035 to enhance governance, accountability

Abang Johari delivery his ministerial winding up speech at Sarawak Legislative Assembly on May 20, 2026.

By Lian Cheng

KUCHING, May 20: Sarawak is in the process of formulating a more structured and strategic framework through the Sarawak Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Masterplan 2026–2035.

Stating this, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the masterplan will strengthen governance and coordination, refine PPP models, adopt transparent project evaluation methods, while ensuring greater efficiency, accountability, and consistency in project execution.

The masterplan was conceived in response to Sarawak’s rapid pace of development, driven by strong public-private partnerships and a growing influx of private investments.

“Over the past five years, Sarawak has attracted more than RM116.8 billion in private investments, creating over 28,000 jobs.

“For the information of this august House, I have continued to receive various courtesy calls from foreign ambassadors and investors, reflecting international confidence in Sarawak’s economic potential and strategic role in the region,” said Abang Johari when delivering ministerial winding up speech at Sarawak Legislative Assembly.

He said a clear signal of Sarawak’s growing investment and trade significance is Singapore’s decision to establish a Consulate in Kuching this year.

“Two days ago in Singapore, during the Philanthropy Asia Summit 2026 organised by Temasek Trust, I shared how Sarawak is building its future economy in real time, supported by renewable energy, digital infrastructure and stronger regional connectivity within ASEAN,” said Abang Johari who is also Gedong assemblyman (GPS-PBB).

He said Sarawak’s strategic location, energy resources and growing digital infrastructure has positioned itself to play a greater role in supporting the future ASEAN economy, including through initiatives such as the ASEAN Power Grid, cross-border connectivity and regional industrial collaboration.

During his engagements with Temasek in Singapore and its strategic partners, discussions also focused on strengthening international collaboration in climate action and energy transition, including climate financing partnerships to support long-term sustainability and regional cooperation.

“To sustain this momentum, we will strengthen our business and investment ecosystem, by supporting the growth of Small and Medium Entreprises, streamlining government approval processes and facilitating both domestic and foreign investments across all key sectors.

“With a comprehensive PPP framework in place, we are confident that Sarawak will secure greater private investment and accelerate progress in key economic and enabler sectors,” said Abang Johari who is also Finance Minister and Minister of New Economy. —DayakDaily