THE Sarawak government remains firm in its commitment to uplift Bumiputera contractors, with more than half of state-funded project contracts awarded to them in the first quarter of this year.
In his ministerial winding-up speech at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting today (May 28), Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said a total of RM1.09 billion, or 54 percent of the RM2.02 billion worth of contracts awarded so far this year, went to Bumiputera contractors.
“This reflects the GPS Government’s unwavering commitment and efforts in fostering and supporting Bumiputera contractors, enabling them to be more competitive and competent,” he said.
As part of ongoing procurement improvement initiatives, Uggah highlighted the success of the Program Kontraktor Berdaya Saing (PKBS), which has now benefitted 456 Bumiputera contractors.
“The programme aims to cultivate a pool of capable and competitive contractors through active participation in government projects,” he added.
He also outlined several other initiatives carried out in collaboration with relevant agencies namely Program Peningkatan Usahawan Bumiputera (PUTERA) that has assisted 611 contractors and suppliers this year, disbursing RM3.7 million in aid.
“Meanwhile, Pusat Inkubator dan Bimbingan Usahawan (PIBU) now operates 23 centres statewide with 5,676 participants. Two more centres in Bario and Beluru are scheduled to commence operations in September and October respectively.
“Under the Skim Pembiayaan Kontraktor Kecil Bumiputera, 46 contractors received RM5.8 million in financing in 2024. As of April, RM582,464 has been disbursed to five contractors.
“And for the Program Pembangunan Vendor Perabot Bumiputera, administered by Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC), has appointed 34 vendors to supply furniture to government offices, with annual contracts valued at RM5 million,” he said.
In addition, Uggah revealed that training and development programmes remain a key component in building capacity among Bumiputera contractors.
“In 2024 alone, 110 courses were conducted, benefiting 4,730 participants. As of the first quarter of this year, another 17 training sessions have already been held for 1,626 participants.
“These efforts are critical to equipping our Bumiputera entrepreneurs with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in an increasingly competitive industry,” he said.
