Friday, 5 December 2025

Author: Fasiha Khushiri

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,

70 pct of rural areas enjoy treated water supply

THE Sarawak government had set aside RM409 million under the 2026 Budget to implement various water supply projects. Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said Sarawak achieved an overall water supply coverage of 86 per cent, with full access in urban areas and 70 per cent in

Sarawak unveils 2026 Budget framework focused on reform, growth and inclusivity

SARAWAK’S 2026 Budget is built on a framework of five pillars, five goals and nine strategic thrusts designed to accelerate economic transformation and strengthen inclusive development statewide. Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said these guiding elements form the backbone of the state’s fiscal direction, ensuring strong

Private investments help strengthen economic momentum

SARAWAK’S economic momentum continues to strengthen in 2025, driven by robust private investment performance across high-value and emerging sectors. Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said in the first half of the year, the state recorded RM4.08 billion in approved private investments, reflecting sustained investor confidence. “Within

PERKESO unveils ‘Lindung’ rebranding to strengthen community protection

KUCHING: The ‘Lindung’ initiative by the Social Security Organisation (PERKESO) has become a strategic step in strengthening the agency’s role in protecting the community. The term is a rebranding of PERKESO’s social security protection schemes, launched on 22 August. Sarawak PERKESO Director, Tan Phang Chia, said the approach is considered

TSI programme promotes creativity, cultural understanding

KICHING: The Sarawak Initiatives (TSI) and Yayasan Sarawak International Secondary School Petra Jaya hosted the Unity in Diversity Programme, empowering 350 students through creativity, identity exploration and cultural appreciation. Helmed by filmmaker and TSI Aspiring Leader, Sarah Lois Dorai, the programme featured hands-on workshops in writing, painting, poetry and video-making