Sarawak welcomes RM16.2-billion Federal Budget 2027’s allocation

KUCHING: Sarawak has welcomed the Federal Government’s RM16.2-billion allocation for the State under Budget 2027, with Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg expressing appreciation for the continued federal support.

He said the allocation, announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, reflected the importance of continued cooperation between the Federal and Sarawak governments in supporting the State’s development.

“I would like to express my gratitude to the Prime Minister for increasing the Federal Government’s allocation to Sarawak to RM16.2 billion. Thank you to the Federal Government,” he said.

Abang Johari was speaking at the parade held in conjunction with the 80th official birthday of the Head of State, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, at Padang Merdeka here today (Oct 10).

He said Sarawak continued to uphold its position within the Federation of Malaysia, with the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and the Federal Constitution serving as the foundations for safeguarding the state’s rights and interests.

As of September 2026, 13 of the 29 matters under the formal MA63 negotiation platform had been fully resolved, while another five had reached partial or interim settlements, he said.

Abang Johari also highlighted the Sarawak Government’s takeover of Bintulu Port on September 1 as a significant development that would enable the facility to be further developed as a strategic economic asset for the state.

He said the takeover was valued at RM1.8 billion, following detailed assessments and negotiations between the Federal and Sarawak governments.

On Sept 16, during the Malaysia Day celebration, Abang Johari and Anwar witnessed the official handover of Bintulu Port documents to the Sarawak Government, ending 45 years of federal administration of the port.

On the same day, Anwar announced an increase in Sarawak’s Special Interim Grant from RM600 million to RM1.5 billion for 2026.

Abang Johari said these developments underscored the importance of continued negotiations and cooperation between the two governments in addressing matters concerning Sarawak’s rights and development.

He said Sarawak would continue to strengthen its relationship with the Federal Government through ongoing negotiations based on mutual understanding and a spirit of partnership, in accordance with the Federal Constitution and MA63.