KUCHING: Sarawak is entering a modern era of unprecedented development, with financial strength and strategic planning leading its transformation.
The economic landscape in Sarawak is changing, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, adding that RM50 billion has been allocated under the 12th Malaysia Plan, with further investments projected to exceed RM100 billion.
“Ten years ago, we could not imagine Sarawak generating RM15 billion annually, and now, we are surpassing RM20 billion.
“People used to look down on us, but when we go to West Malaysia, they admire our progress.
“Our annual revenue is comparable to what Selangor generated in five years,” he said at the 2025 Padungan Chinese New Year Gathering at Life Cafe here Sunday (Feb 9).
Additionally, Dr Sim said Sarawak was catching up fast and on course to surpass many other states’ economic strength.
“We used to be behind, but now we are catching up, and soon we will overtake.
“We have to ensure we are not left behind.
“Many big cities face the issue of their oldest areas becoming the most neglected.
“We must work together to prevent that from happening in Sarawak,” he said.
Also, Dr Sim stressed that redevelopment in Sibu and Bintulu may be taking their time, but that this is necessary to achieve economic status in the long run.
“Proper drainage planning alone in Sibu has cost RM3 billion.
“Such developments require time, but they are necessary for sustainable progress.
“The Prime Minister has already committed RM50 billion; by 2026, we will see massive changes.
“Planning takes time, but once finalised, development will accelerate,” he said.
Dr Sim believes that by 2030, Sarawak will be fully transformed due to strategic investments, financial management, and development projects for the future.
“With our revenue, we can now allocate RM1,200 to every Sarawakian child, RM500 to seniors, and five months’ bonuses to civil servants, things unimaginable a decade ago,” he said.
He also called on all levels of society to contribute to Sarawak’s development.
