KUCHING: The Sarawak government’s decision to introduce carbon levy legislation demonstrates the state’s political courage in safeguarding Sarawak’s rights and interests, particularly in the management of revenue related to climate change.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said the move ensures that Sarawak has the authority to collect its own revenue from carbon emission activities.
“This law was introduced because we considered Sarawak’s long-term interests.
“If we did not act early, this revenue might not belong to the state,” he said in his speech during Kuching South City Council (MBKS) annual dinner held here on Sunday (Dec 14).
He added that the carbon levy legislation makes Sarawak the first state in Malaysia to take such a step, thereby placing the state ahead in the green economic transition agenda.
He stressed that the decision was not merely an economic move, but a political one that requires a deep understanding of the division of powers between the state government and the federal government.
“This decision was made not for popularity, but out of responsibility to protect Sarawak’s future.”
Dr Sim also said that the state’s financial strength is crucial in enabling the Sarawak government to bear the high costs of development, including healthcare, infrastructure and public welfare, without being overly dependent on federal funds.
He said this, in turn, allows the Sarawak government to provide bonuses and various allowances to civil servants and local authority councillors.
“Without this revenue, it would be impossible for Sarawak to give bonuses of up to several months, as well as to improve councillors’ welfare and strengthen services to the people.”
Therefore, he urged civil servants and local authorities to understand that every policy formulated requires clear political support and implementation with integrity so that its benefits can be felt by the people.
“Political courage must be accompanied by effective implementation. This is where the role of all parties, including local authorities such as MBKS, comes in.”
