Sarawak’s economic vision, achievements, aspirations

BY NATASHA JEE & NURIN PATRA

KUCHING: Another year has passed, and Sarawak Day has once again been celebrated, prompting the state’s business community to reflect on the region’s economic development and anticipate greater achievements.

Datuk Richard Wee, the president of the Sarawak Federation of Chinese Association (SFCA), highlighted the efforts of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg in his relentless pursuit of making Sarawak a prosperous and advanced state within Malaysia.

Under his leadership, the state’s revenue has significantly increased, and he has taken steps to restore Sarawak’s rights outlined in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).

Wee commended Abang Johari for reclaiming key assets such as the Bakun Hydroelectric Dam and Bintulu Port, as well as initiating the acquisition of Affin Bank and MASwings.

The Premier’s focus on infrastructure projects, including the construction of roads and bridges connecting cities, towns, and villages, has enhanced land accessibility and unlocked the development potential for landowners.

Emphasising the importance of education as an equalizer, Abang Johari strives to provide more opportunities for all Sarawakians and open markets and industries in the state for future generations.

These initiatives, along with Sarawak’s rich heritage and its harmonious coexistence of diverse cultures, races, and religions, have instilled a sense of pride among its people.

Wee called upon all Sarawakians to fully support and back Abang Johari in his pursuit of these objectives and vision.

He also expressed gratitude to the late Chief Minister Pehin Sri Adenan Satem for emphasising and elevating the significance of Sarawak Day, which has awakened the spirit of Sarawakians.

In a similar vein, Datuk Jonathan Chai, the secretary-general of the Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Sarawak (ACCCIS), emphasised the integral role of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in fostering the state’s economic development.

He expressed hope for more business opportunities to be made available to SMEs through upcoming mega projects.

Chai praised Abang Johari’s visionary leadership, stating that Sarawak is progressing well and on track to achieve its goals of becoming a developed and high-income economy by 2030, as outlined in the Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS).

With increased revenue, the state government has been able to implement numerous development projects that generate business opportunities for local enterprises.

The anticipated acquisition of Affin Bank and MASwings, along with the assumption of control over Bintulu Port, positions Sarawak to establish a better ecosystem for economic development.

Chai expressed a desire for the timely implementation of the proposed deep-sea port and international airport, which would facilitate Sarawak’s aspiration to become a regional hub for logistics and transportation.

Abang Johari’s focus on environmental protection and sustainability, including the transformation to a digital and green economy, has set the right direction for the state’s economic development.

Rodger Chan, the president of the Sarawak Australia Business Chamber (SABC), holds Sarawak Day close to his heart. He highlighted that Sarawak Day marks the region’s journey towards autonomy since gaining self-governance from British colonial rule in 1963.

Sarawak’s abundant natural resources, lush rainforests, and commitment to a green economy make it a leader not only in Malaysia but also in the ASEAN region.

The state’s advancements in green energy, such as hydrogen and digital technology, along with sustainable infrastructure development, are supported by a well-developed human resources sector.

Chan praised the state government’s emphasis on education and human resources as vital foundations for Sarawak’s prosperous future.

The presence of world-class Australian universities, Swinburne University and Curtin University, in Sarawak showcases the investment in quality education and skills development.

Chan stressed the significance of education autonomy for Sarawak in shaping its destiny.

Maintaining unity among Sarawakians is equally important, as it contributes to economic prosperity, social inclusivity, and a sustainable environment.

As Sarawakians, the unity, stability, capable government, progressive education, and capabilities of its people inspire the aspiration for economic prosperity, social inclusivity, and a sustainable environment.”