BAU: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg believes Sarawak’s growing revenue may be drawing envy from certain quarters.
He suggested this envy could partly explain the recent tensions between national oil company, PETRONAS, and the Sarawak-owned oil and gas firm, PETROS.
He said Sarawak’s rising income has caused some parties to question the state’s autonomy, citing the repeated chants of ‘Sarawak for Sarawakians’.
“Sometimes when people succeed, others become jealous.
“That’s why I’ve had to deal with issues between PETRONAS and PETROS, but as your leader, I will defend the rights that belong to Sarawak,” he said.
The Premier said this when officiating at Bau’s 205th Anniversary Celebration in conjunction with Pesta Tasik Biru and Tasik Biru Resort City here today.
On the same note, he said that Sarawak’s revenue now exceeds RM15 billion annually, driven by unity, political stability, and consistent development efforts.
“Their past political problems in Malaya have nothing to do with us. They created those issues themselves,” he added.
As such, he urged others not to resent Sarawak’s progress, saying the state’s growth contributes to the overall prosperity of Malaysia.
He also reiterated that Sarawak’s wealth is being reinvested in its people through major initiatives like free tertiary education.
“When Sarawak prospers, Malaysia prospers. That is why our state economy must be managed wisely, with unity among our people. This is what makes us unique.
“Our free tertiary education initiative comes at a cost. Starting next year, we will allocate at least RM700 million to support our university students,” he added.
