MIRI: Sarawak is entering 2026 with a clear policy signal – sustained economic stability, social cohesion and an accelerated push towards green and inclusive transport infrastructure.
In his Chinese New Year address marking the Year of the Horse, Sarawak Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin framed the state’s development narrative around mobility, fiscal discipline and multicultural harmony, positioning transport not merely as infrastructure, but as a social enabler.
The message came against the backdrop of a calendar dense with major religious and cultural celebrations, which Lee described as a defining feature of Sarawak’s identity.
He pointed to the close succession of Chinese New Year, Ramadan, Hari Raya Aidilfitri and Gawai Dayak as a living illustration of social cohesion that the state must actively protect from extremism.
Under the leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, Sarawak has continued to project political stability and a business-friendly environment, factors that Lee said have strengthened investor confidence and public trust.
He highlighted the state government’s emphasis on fiscal sustainability, noting that stronger finances have enabled long-term development planning and the expansion of welfare programmes, including maternity assistance, senior healthcare benefits and the Sarawak Basic Needs Assistance scheme.
Education remains a strategic pillar. This year, Sarawak has introduce free tertiary education for selected courses at state-owned universities, a move designed to remove financial barriers and build a future-ready workforce.
Transport policy, however, formed the centre-piece of Lee’s address.
In Miri, the free bus service introduced last year has improved urban mobility and encouraged public transport use, serving as a pilot model for expansion to other towns. At the state capital level, the Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS) continues to advance, with the hydrogen-powered Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) system scheduled for phased rollout by year end.
The project places Sarawak at the forefront of green mobility in the region, aligning transport development with the state’s broader clean energy ambitions.
Air connectivity has also taken a strategic turn with the launch of AirBorneo, fulfilling Sarawak’s long-standing aspiration to operate its own airline. Lee said the carrier is expected to strengthen tourism flows, trade links and regional connectivity.
Road safety remains a priority. The Transport Ministry is intensifying public awareness campaigns and school-based education programmes, reflecting a policy shift towards early behavioural intervention.
“Transport exists to ensure children reach school safely, families return home safely and seniors travel with dignity,” Lee said, reinforcing the social dimension of mobility planning.
As Sarawak looks towards its 2030 development goals, the Year of the Horse has been positioned as a symbol of endurance and forward momentum. The message from the state leadership is unambiguous— progress will be steady, inclusive and firmly anchored in long-term planning.
