KUCHING: Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s tenure as Premier has been marked by notable achievements, particularly in expanding the base of revenue collection, advancing the state’s economy and strengthening its development trajectory.
Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Sarawak (ACCCIS) secretary-general Datuk Jonathan Chai said Abang Johari championed Sarawak’s digital economy agenda, establishing the Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) and promoting initiatives like the Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint 2030, which aims to make Sarawak the leading digital economy and society by 2030.
These efforts, he added, have modernised sectors like agriculture, manufacturing and services, leveraging technology for growth and productivity.
In addition, the Sarawak government has also introduced a Fintech mobile app platform in the name of SPayGlobal (also known as Sarawak Pay) to provide a convenient and secured e-wallet functionality and this has since become a popular cashless payment platform for Sarawakians.
“Other than that, he has also positioned Sarawak as a leader in green energy under his leadership. The development of hydropower and the recent push for hydrogen economy initiatives have attracted significant investment and placed Sarawak on the global map as a renewable energy hub.
“Through negotiations with the federal government and in exercising our constitutional rights, Sarawak regained greater control over its oil and gas resources via the anticipated recognition of our gas distribution right by appointing Petros as the sole aggregator of our natural gas in addition to the imposition of the State Sales Tax (SST) on petroleum products.
“These moves have significantly increased state revenue and empowered Sarawak to chart its economic future more independently,” Chai told Sarawak Tribune.
He pointed out that Abang Johari’s administration prioritised infrastructure development, such as the Second Trunk Road and the Coastal Road Network and rural connectivity programmes to complement the near completion of the Pan Borneo Highway undertaken by the federal government.
These projects, he said, enhance trade, tourism and investment opportunities by improving accessibility within and beyond Sarawak.
“Moreover, the establishment of the Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE), Sama Jaya Free Industrial Zone and Samalaju Industrial Park together with the recent plans for Special Economic Zones (SEZs) have created a conducive environment for industrial growth, attracting investors in high-value industries and generating job opportunities.”
While much has been accomplished, Chai stated that there are still areas where further focus could propel Sarawak to greater heights, especially for the business community.
He expressed his hope that Abang Johari would introduce more accessible financing, mentorship programmes, and incentives to help local businesses scale and integrate into global supply chains.
“It is hoped that the acquisition of a substantial stake by the Sarawak government in Affin Bank Berhad would steer its focus to make financing more accessible for the business community in Sarawak.
“It is also hoped that Sarawak’s role as a key exporter of renewable energy to neighbouring countries could be further strengthen while building the local green industry ecosystem.
“One of pillars prescribed under the PCDS 2030 is environmental sustainability and the noble vision of the Premier of developing Sarawak into a green economy will have the exporters to gain wider access to the global market especially in the EU which imposes stringent standards on environmental protection.”
Other than that, he suggested developing more trade and logistics hubs to position Sarawak as a key transit and trade centre in Southeast Asia.
He explained that with the ambitious plan conceived by the Premier to build a deep sea port and a new international airport in Kuching within the next five to 10 years and to capitalise on the state’s strategic location, Sarawak is poised to become a regional logistics hub in Asia.
“It is also hoped that Sarawak will focus on creating smart cities while ensuring rural areas benefit from infrastructure, connectivity, and technological advancements.
“In addition to this, the state should also focus on streamlining processes for permits, registrations, and investments to make Sarawak an attractive destination for local and foreign investors.”
Chai further commended that Abang Johari’s visionary leadership has undoubtedly set a strong and formidable foundation for Sarawak’s economic transformation.
“Moving forward, a balanced approach between sustainability, inclusivity and innovation can help Sarawak not only grow its economy but also uplift the living standard of its people, cementing its role as a vibrant and competitive territory in Malaysia and the region,” he added.
