Friday, 5 December 2025

Author: Fasiha Khushiri

Comprehensive, forward-looking fiscal plan

KUCHING: The Sarawak Budget 2026 has been described as a comprehensive and forward-looking fiscal plan aimed at strengthening the State’s development, competitiveness and long-term wellbeing. Designed to complement the Federal Budget, this year’s budget underscores Sarawak’s commitment to building a knowledge-driven society, accelerating infrastructure modernisation, enhancing social protection and reinforcing

Circular economy push expected to boost Sarawak employment

THE proposed Sustainable Resources and Waste Management Bill 2025 is set to transform Sarawak’s economy by promoting green and circular practices that not only enhance economic stability but also generate high-value employment opportunities. Tupong assemblyman Datuk Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman said developing a sustainable materials ecosystem could create jobs in sectors

Waste management bill backs ‘Battery of ASEAN’ goal

SARAWAK is set to advance its waste management and renewable energy initiatives with a new bill that emphasises systematic waste disposal and energy recovery, supporting the state’s vision to become the ‘Battery of ASEAN’ by 2030. Tanjong Datu state assemblyman, Azizul Annuar Adenan, said the Sustainable Resources and Wastes Management

Assemblyman lauds waste management initiatives

THE Sustainable Resources and Wastes Management Bill is notably relevant to Balingian constituency, an area marked by industrial development, active agricultural zones and townships experiencing steady growth. Balingian assemblyman Abdul Yakub Arbi said the legislation is expected to help prevent illegal dumping, improve domestic and commercial waste handling, strengthen recycling

Hasidah assures positive progress in MA63 rights talks

THE Sarawak government continues to make positive progress in its efforts to restore and strengthen its rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), with 11 major claims successfully resolved to date. Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Law, MA63 and Federal-State Relations) Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali said

RM450 million to step up efforts to close digital divide

THE Sarawak government will allocate RM450 million in 2026 as Alternative Funding to accelerate the continued implementation of the SMART tower projects and the Sarawak Rural Broadband Network (MySRBN) initiative in another major push to close the digital divide across the State. Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun

Nanta shares personal side behind his leadership style

KNOWN as a firm yet approachable leader, federal Works Minister and Kapit MP Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi consistently emphasises an approach that eases the public’s affairs and solves problems practically without unnecessary complications. During the 19th State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting on Monday (Nov 24), he also shared a

RM5 mil to boost Sarawak AI Centre operations

SARAWAK’S push toward becoming a regional leader in technology-driven innovation will accelerate in 2026, with the state government allocating RM5 million to support the operations and strategic functions of the Sarawak Artificial Intelligence Centre (SAIC). Established in 2025, SAIC is a flagship initiative designed to position Sarawak at the forefront

Councillors’ monthly allowance increased to RM1,000

THE Sarawak government has announced a major revision to the remuneration and benefits of local councillors and community leaders, reflecting their expanding roles in strengthening local governance and service delivery across the state. Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the Special Fixed Monthly Allowance for the

Additional RM50 mln for senior citizens

THE Sarawak government will channel RM50 million next year to support 100,000 senior citizens under the Senior Citizens Health Benefit programme, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the welfare of vulnerable groups across the state. Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the initiative, introduced in August 2024,