Sarawak to press on with economic restructuring and tourism push in 2026, says Ting

MIRI (Dec 31): Sarawak is expected to continue its economic restructuring and sectoral transformation in 2026, a process that will present both challenges and new opportunities for the state, said Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew.

In his New Year 2026 message, Ting said key sectors such as tourism, the creative industries and the performing arts would continue to play an important role in driving growth, underpinned by ongoing government facilitation, policy support and promotional efforts.

“With 2026 designated as Visit Malaysia Year, Sarawak will leverage the nationwide campaign to further promote its natural attractions, cultural diversity, and historical heritage to international markets.

“Through closer collaborations with federal agencies and industry stakeholders, Sarawak aims to strengthen its position as a distinctive, competitive, and preferred tourism destination,” he said.

He added that the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) World Heritage status of Niah National Park and Gunung Mulu National Park would continue to generate positive spillover effects, contributing to higher international visibility for the sites as well as the broader Miri region, while enhancing Sarawak’s profile in heritage conservation, biodiversity protection, archaeological research and sustainable tourism.

Reflecting on developments in Miri, Ting who is also Piasau assemblyman said the city recorded steady progress throughout 2025, supported by the implementation of various infrastructure and urban improvement projects.

“These developments have further reinforced Miri’s role as a key city and tourism gateway in northern Sarawak, while providing a stronger platform for future growth,” he said.

He also expressed confidence in the medium- and long-term development prospects of Miri and its surrounding areas, adding that efforts would continue to focus on securing resources for local development, improving public facilities and enhancing service delivery for residents.

The Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) secretary general also said that 2026 is expected to be a significant year in Sarawak’s political calendar, with the approaching state election.

“In this context, political stability and continuity in development will depend on a high degree of unity and shared responsibility among the electorate, with broad-based public support for Gabungan Parti Sarawak seen as a key factor,” he said.

As a component party of GPS, he said SUPP would continue to work closely with other parties in the coalition, playing its role within the political mainstream while supporting policies that promote stability, unity, inclusiveness and sustainable development.

“We wish all Sarawakians good health, peace, happiness, success and prosperity in 2026,” he said.