Sarawak on path towards developed-state status thanks to efforts to restore MA63 rights, says SUPP man

KUCHING (July 22): The state government’s active efforts in restoring Sarawak’s eroded rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) has placed the state firmly on course towards attaining developed status by 2030, said Dato Sim Kiang Chiok.

The Sarawak United People’s Party Stakan branch chairman said as part of its MA63 rights, the state has imposed a sales tax on exported oils and gas that has generated additional revenue to further accelerate growth.

“In 2021 following the Covid pandemic, Sarawak set a goal to become a developed and high-income state by 2030 through the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS).

“Remarkably, we achieved high-income status in 2023, earlier than expected,” he said in a statement issued in conjunction with Sarawak Day.

Sim, who is also Sarawak Housing and Real Estate Developers Association advisor, said the state is also at the forefront of green energy initiatives, including hydrogen production and hydroelectric dam construction for green electricity, with some surplus available for export.

“For businesses in Sarawak, the future is promising. The PCDS aims to double Sarawak’s economic growth by 2030, creating a thriving environment for both traditional and new enterprises,” he said.

He also expressed hope that Sarawak would continue to develop and retain its talent, but cautioned that the small population would see the state face a shortage of human capital.

In this regard, he suggested that Sarawak may need to consider increasing the influx of foreign workers to meet its goals.

“With political stability and a strong state government, I am optimistic that by 2030, Sarawak will be a state where everyone enjoys economic prosperity, social inclusivity, and a sustainable environment,” he said.