Study to chart pathway for stronger, self-sustaining state enterprises, says Uggah

KUCHING (Dec 3): The Sarawak government has commenced a comprehensive study on the Proposed Roadmap Towards Financial Self‑Reliance and Transformation of State Statutory Bodies and GLCs for 2026-2030, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.

The Second Finance and New Economy Minister said the study, which involves selected state-owned enterprises (SOEs), aims to chart a structured pathway for reducing their dependency on the Sarawak government while strengthening their operational resilience and commercial viability.

“The findings and recommendations from this study are expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2026.

“It will support the effective implementation of our new Ownership Policy and Code of Corporate Governance, ensuring that our SOEs are well-positioned to thrive in a more competitive and self-sustaining environment,” he said in his ministerial winding-up speech.

Uggah added the state is also strengthening public sector financial reporting through the progressive adoption of the Malaysian Public Sector Accounting Standards (MPSAS) by all statutory bodies and local authorities.

“Adoption of MPSAS will ensure more accurate and transparent financial statements and enhance accountability.

“This transition is critical as it provides a complete picture of our assets, liabilities, and long-term obligations, supporting stronger financial discipline, better planning, and more informed policy decisions,” he said.

To enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the government procurement, he told the august House that the state has revised the procurement policies and procedures for state-funded works, supplies, and services.

“One of the significant revisions is the increase of financial limit for direct appointment of consultants for physical development projects, excluding survey works, from RM10 million to RM50 million.

“This applies to all ministries, departments, statutory bodies, local authorities, and regional development agencies in Sarawak.”

He said the increased financial limit and authority for the appointment of consultants is a strategic initiative that balances control with flexibility.

“With proper governance mechanism that is already in place, this delegation of authority will contribute significantly to better project outcomes, institutional agility, and more effective public service delivery across Sarawak,” he added.

Uggah also said that the development of the state’s e-Procurement System is progressing well, with Stage 1 covering e-Direct Purchase module now successfully completed.

“Stages 2 and 3 are on track for completion by December this year and the system is expected to be rolled out next year,” he said.