LIMBANG: Strong unity among Sarawak’s leadership and people remains the foundation for the state’s continued development and economic progress.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg stressed that close cooperation among leaders has enabled the implementation of major development plans, including projects that require substantial funding.
“We are able to implement these plans because of our strong unity. Our leaders are working together to realise projects that require substantial funding.
“Alhamdulillah, Sarawak’s revenue has increased significantly, doubling over the past six years, allowing us to develop infrastructure and strengthen our ecosystem for the people,” he said.
He said this when delivering his address at the ‘Majlis Makan Malam Bersama Komuniti Limbang’ event here on Friday (Apr 10) evening.
Abang Johari said the state government remains committed to supporting the rakyat, particularly through investments in infrastructure and education.
“With our stable financial position, we are giving back to the people, especially in education. If your children perform well and enter universities in Sarawak, their education will be fully funded by the government.
“Without such policies, families would otherwise have to bear high costs. Now, these costs are fully covered by the state government and opportunities are available across various fields, including medicine, law and STEM programmes,” he said.
At the same time, Abang Johari called on community leaders to play a proactive role in ensuring that the people are aware of such initiatives.
“I urge community leaders to understand these policies and encourage their communities to take full advantage of them,” he said.
Abang Johari said Sarawak’s peaceful environment and growing revenue have contributed to its recognition as a high-income region, alongside Selangor and Penang.
“Previously, we were far behind, but now we are on par. Our future is even brighter with new technologies and a new economic approach centred on digital capabilities and renewable resources,” he said.
Abang Johari emphasised that political stability must be preserved to ensure continued progress.
He said Sarawak leaders, including Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof, are now playing a significant role at the federal level.
“We must not divide our politics, we must protect what we have built. If we remain united, Sarawak can continue to play an important role at the national level.
“Some may call us kingmakers, but we are not. Our ‘perjuangan’ is sincere, and that is why we are trusted.
“As I have said to the Prime Minister, if Sarawak is strong, Malaysia is strong,” he said.
