SARAWAK continues to maintain a strong rural focus in its 2026 Budget, with RM6.1 billion set aside for development initiatives aimed at narrowing the urban–rural divide.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the rural allocation represented 66 per cent of the proposed RM9.3 billion Development Expenditure for next year.
“This strategic allocation reaffirms our unwavering commitment to reach every corner of Sarawak, ensuring no one is left behind in our journey towards shared prosperity,” he said when tabling the 2026 State Budget during the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting.
Under the initiative, he said RM350 million would be channelled to Rural Transformation Projects (RTP), RM315 million to Regional Development Agencies, RM267 million to Program Projek Khas and RM100 million to Projek Rakyat.
To further drive rural growth, Abang Johari said RM1.05 billion had been allocated for statewide road and bridge construction to enhance accessibility to healthcare, education and markets.
The funding would cover several key projects, including the upgrading of Jalan Musi–Buso in Bau; Jalan Teku–Jalan Teku Pasai Siong–Jalan Kemuyang in Sibu; and the Serian–Gedong–Samarahan Dual Carriageway Highway.
Other projects include Jalan Bawang Assan–Tanjung Manis–Sungai Illas–Kampung Sebena in Meradong; access road to Rumah Panjang Nicholas Sandom in Sebauh; the road at Kampung Medong Seberang–Kampung Kekan Seberang in Mukah; and bridge works in Limbang.
He said the Rural Bridges Transformation Programme and the construction of Jalan Sungai Passin–Matu in Mukah were also included under the allocation.
In addition, RM3.22 billion under Alternative Funding would support major ongoing road infrastructure projects next year, including the Sarawak Coastal Road, the Second Trunk Road, the Northern Coastal Highway, Sultan Tengah Road and the new Santubong Bridge.
“This also includes various infrastructure projects under Regional Corridor Development Authority (RECODA),” he added.
