KUCHING: Sarawak’s economic growth has become a new pull factor, encouraging skilled Sarawakians working outside the state to return home and serve.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the expanding economy now allows competitive salaries to be offered, matching the academic qualifications of these professionals.
“Therefore, we must continue to elevate our economic standing so they can find suitable employment. This is why we focus on semiconductor industries, high technology, modern agriculture using machinery, and the services sector including banking.
“When industrial tariffs are low and competitive, new investments are attracted to areas with lower production costs, making products more competitive in international markets, and ultimately creating jobs,” he said during a dialogue session at the Leadership Soiree Dinner (Sarawak Woman of Tomorrow 2025) held here on Tuesday (Nov 25).
As an example, the Premier noted that the methanol plant in Bintulu has seen many Sarawakians previously working with Shell and Petronas return because the salaries offered are sufficient, coupled with their desire to come home.
He added that the same trend is seen with the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) project currently being implemented, where Sarawakians who worked on Kuala Lumpur’s Light Rail Transit (LRT) projects have returned to serve in the state.
“The issue lies in the state of your economy. If the people have skills but you cannot provide jobs, you cannot blame them for leaving as they need to earn a living.
“But when the economy grows and their expertise is needed, the majority will return,” he said.
He added that Sarawak’s urbanisation programmes are also drawing professionals back to join the private sector, which increasingly requires their services.
Abang Johari also said the government has introduced a five-year work visa policy for non-Sarawakians to e
