Strong leadership, long-term vision to continue steering Sarawak in 2026, says SFCA president

KUCHING (Dec 30): Sarawak continues to chart a steady and forward-looking development path despite global uncertainties, thanks to strong leadership, people-oriented policies and a clear long-term vision, said Dato Sri Richard Wee.

In his New Year message, the Sarawak Federation of Chinese Associations (SFCA) president said this past year was marked by significant domestic and international developments, including political shifts and rapid technological advances, particularly in artificial intelligence, which have reshaped societies worldwide.

“We are living in an era of uncertainties, but encouragingly, Sarawak has been forging ahead with determination under the leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari,” he said.

He noted that through effective negotiations under the Malaysia Agreement 1963, Sarawak has regained greater autonomy and decision-making powers, enabling the state to restructure resource allocation and pursue a development model aligned with its long-term needs and aspirations.

On people’s welfare, Wee said the Sarawak government had implemented inclusive policies to support low-income families, vulnerable groups and senior citizens.

These included financial assistance, medical subsidies, and the establishment of community centres offering services such as community kitchens to help ease daily living burdens and alleviate poverty.

He also highlighted ongoing infrastructure development, including the completion of the Pan Borneo Highway, construction of the Coastal Highway, and the building of major bridges and feeder roads to improve connectivity.

These initiatives, he said, were complemented by efforts to develop land resources prudently to spur economic growth, he explained.

In urban development, Wee pointed to the implementation of the Autonomous Rapid Transit system in Kuching to address traffic congestion, as well as commencement of AirBorneo operations which he said would strengthen Sarawak’s domestic and international connectivity.

Human capital development, he stressed, remains central to Sarawak’s future.

“Since 2015, the state has recognised the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) and recruited Chinese-educated students into the civil service.

“From 2026, Sarawak will also implement free tertiary education, including tuition fee exemptions and living allowances for eligible Sarawakian students.”

Wee said Sarawak’s economic model has evolved from a conventional approach to one that embraces technology, digitalisation, e-wallet adoption and artificial intelligence, alongside a strong commitment to green and sustainable energy.

He added that Sarawak’s focus on renewable energy, including hydroelectric power, solar energy and the hydrogen economy, was reaffirmed at the Singapore International Energy Week Summit 2025, where the state reiterated its commitment to a resilient and interconnected Borneo power grid in support of the Asean Power Grid.

He said at the core of Sarawak’s development agenda is the preservation of social harmony and mutual respect in its multi-ethnic and multi-religious society, and called for continued dialogue, understanding and engagement to strengthen unity.

On national issues, Wee urged civil society and political leaders to engage in cross-community dialogue, seek consensus, respect differences, uphold the rule of law and reject opportunistic politics.

“We commend the Sarawak government for its people-oriented policies and long-term development initiatives, and we look forward to seeing them progressively implemented.

“If Sarawak is to progress, the people must be carried along at all levels,” he added, expressing hope that ongoing projects and policies would come to fruition in 2026.