KUCHING: The Sarawak government has decided that 30 per cent of all major projects undertaken by the state must be allocated to Bumiputera enterprises to strengthen local participation in Sarawak’s development.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the policy was modelled on the arrangement already adopted by Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB), where 30 per cent of its works are reserved for Bumiputera contractors.
“In the construction sector, we have many projects with Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB), where 30 per cent of the works were reserved for Bumiputera contractors. This initiative has proven to be successful.
“Following this success, Sarawak has decided that for all major projects undertaken by the government, 30 per cent be allocated to Bumiputera enterprises, while they can work together with non-Bumiputera companies on major projects,” he said.
He was speaking at the 27th Malaysian Malay Contractors Association (PKMM) Sarawak Branch annual general meeting and dinner at the Sheraton Hotel on Wednesday (Sept 2).
Abang Johari said the policy would become increasingly important as Sarawak’s development agenda extended beyond 2030, with several major infrastructure projects in the pipeline.
He said among the key developments would be the Tanjung Embang deep-sea port, which would also include a gas port to support petrochemical activities in the area.
“Looking ahead, I believe this will go beyond 2030 because we have major developments planned in Tanjung Embang.
“There, we will develop a deep-sea port located about eight kilometres offshore. It will become an important port facility, including a gas port to support petrochemical activities in Tanjung Embang.
“Not far from there, we will also develop our new airport, and all these initiatives are being undertaken by Sarawak itself,” said Abang Johari.
He also urged Bumiputera contractors to strengthen their competencies and expand their capacity rather than remain dependent on small-scale contracts.
