THE Constitution of the State of Sarawak (Amendment) Bill, 2025 will have a significant impact in strengthening the Sarawak Government’s administrative machinery through the appointment of additional members to the state cabinet.
Balingian assemblyman Abdul Yakub Arbi said this is crucial as the Bill is not merely a technical adjustment but a strategic initiative to enhance the government’s capacity in line with the state’s rapid development.
“The additional appointments of ministers are aimed at reinforcing the state’s administrative machinery,” he said when debating on the Bill.
He said Sarawak faces an expanding set of responsibilities including renewable energy and hydrogen; green industries and carbon management; digital transformation; regional development; food security and modern agriculture; upgraded transport and utilities; as well as social welfare programmes.
“Therefore, the appointments are intended to strengthen governance capacity to meet these growing responsibilities.
“As our state progresses, our administrative structure must also grow.
“The appointment of additional Cabinet members will also enhance the government’s capacity to handle complex and emerging sectors; improve policy coordination and implementation; ensure better oversight of state initiatives; accelerate rural and regional development; and facilitate long-term strategic planning.
“This is not about political expansion. It is about administrative capability, efficiency and effectiveness in service delivery. A stronger Cabinet means a stronger Sarawak — for Kuching, Miri, Kapit, Mukah, the interior areas and including Balingian,” he said.
He emphasised that under the Premier’s leadership, Sarawak is pursuing a bold, innovative and green development agenda — from hydrogen to artificial intelligence (AI) and renewable energy.
“To realise these aspirations, our governance capacity must keep pace. This amendment provides the structural support needed to ensure Sarawak remains agile, future-ready and administratively robust,” he said, declaring his support for the Bill.
