Sarawak to announce assistance to ease impact of rising prices, says Nanta

KUCHING (March 28): The Sarawak government will soon announce forms of assistance for the people to help ease the burden of the rising price of goods caused by the Middle East conflict, said Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi.

Nanta, who is also Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) secretary‑general, said the matter was disclosed by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg when speaking at the Majlis Ramah Tamah Aidilfitri organised by the Premier’s Office on Friday night.

According to Nanta, Abang Johari told those present that discussions had been held with Deputy Premier and Second Finance Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, with further evaluation being carried out to ensure the aid package will truly benefit those affected.

“I greatly admire the leadership of the Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, who always puts the interests of the people first and never tires of listening to their complaints,” he said in a Facebook post following the event.

Elaborating further on the event, Nanta said Abang Johari in his speech also highlighted the impact of global geopolitical tensions on the global economy, citing conflicts in Venezuela and Iran which are closely tied to oil resources.

Nanta said the Premier had stressed that these developments clearly showed how reliance on fossil fuels can have a major impact on economic stability.

“However, Sarawak is now on the right track with the transition to alternative energy such as solar energy, hydrogen and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

“The Sarawak Premier also announced that a meeting will be convened in the near future, which he will chair himself, to accelerate the use of SAF. He also emphasised the importance of all levels — from the top leadership to the grassroots — to move in tandem in making this agenda a success,” added Nanta.

He also said Abang Johari mentioned that public transport initiatives, including the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) system, would utilise hydrogen technology in line with Sarawak’s commitment to reducing reliance on conventional energy sources.

Nanta added that a meeting would be convened soon, to be chaired by the Premier, to accelerate the adoption of SAF, with emphasis on coordinated efforts across all levels of leadership.

“This approach is not only strategic, but also important in ensuring economic stability and the well-being of the people in the long term.

“I believe that the efforts and meticulous planning of the Sarawak government will continue to ensure that the state remains sustainable, resilient and always prioritizes the welfare of the people,” he said.

On the Ramah Tamah Aidilfitri organised by the Premier’s Office, Nanta, who is also federal Works Minister, said the event provided an opportunity for him to meet and strengthen ties with Sarawak leaders, including veteran figures and members of the community from various walks of life.

Those present included federal Women, Family and Community Development Minister Dato Sri Nancy Shukri, who also shared photographs taken at the event.