KUCHING: Sarawak’s development strategy is firmly anchored in sustainability, with clear commitments under the Post-COVID Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, says Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Through PCDS, he said the state aims to build a prosperous, inclusive and sustainable future.
“This includes expanding our green economy, with investments in green hydrogen, renewable energy and carbon trading, driving the digital economy to create opportunities and reduce inequality and ensuring Sarawak will achieve net-zero emissions by 2050,” he said in his text-of-speech read out by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian during the JCI Malaysia Sustainable Development Award Gala Ceremony held at a hotel here, last night (Sept 21).
Abang Johari added in 2026, the state government will roll out the Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES) where tuition fees will be fully covered for eligible students at four state-owned universities, with priority given to critical fields such as STEM, Law, Medicine, Accounting, and Finance.
Students from low-income households earning below RM1,500 monthly per capita will receive an additional RM15,000 to ease living costs. Eligibility will be determined by the “K” status on the MyKad to ensure the benefit is reserved for Sarawakians.
“This initiative directly supports the United Nations’ SDG 4, which calls for inclusive and equitable quality education for all, and reflects our commitment to developing the next generation of talent to drive Sarawak’s sustainable future,” he added.
Abang Johari also congratulated the 30 finalists, noting that the awards have recognised individuals and organisations since 2017 who translate the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into action.
“The Sustainable Development Goals remind us that development must not come at the expense of our people or our environment. Tonight, we see inspiring examples of leadership and innovation,” he said.
He said the finalists’ projects in education, healthcare, environment, and social enterprise demonstrate how local actions can align with the state and nation’s vision for a sustainable future.
“The government alone cannot achieve sustainability. We need the energy, innovation, and partnerships that platforms such as the JCI Malaysia Sustainable Development Awards inspire,” he said.
Abang Johari also commended JCI Malaysia and JCI Kuching for their continued commitment to the SDGs, expressing hope that the celebration would inspire collective action for a sustainable Sarawak, a sustainable Malaysia, and a sustainable world.
