KUCHING: Sarawak is set to invest RM100 billion into its economy from 2025 to 2030, a major step forward in the state’s Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said this injection includes major infrastructure projects such as a deep seaport in Kuching and a new international airport, both aimed at enhancing connectivity and boosting economic growth.
He expressed optimism that the development would solidify Sarawak’s position as a prosperous state by 2030.
“We will build the deep seaport using our funding, and there has been interest from the private sector to take equity. The seaport will include a gas terminal at Tanjong Embang, similar to the model in Shanghai, China.
“This project will unlock economic opportunities in Tanjong Embang and Samarahan. Once the Sejingkat Bridge is completed, the entire area will be fully integrated.
“Meanwhile the airport will be an international hub capable of accommodating 15 million passengers. We are modeling it after Qatar’s airport in Doha, aiming to create a seamless travel experience.”
He said this when officiating at the 2025 Sarawak Budget Conference at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) today (Dec 3).
Looking back on the first phase of PCDS 2030, Abang Johari reported a significant rise in Sarawak’s revenue, from RM5 billion in 2020 to RM14 billion in 2023.
He affirmed that the next five years would focus on achieving debt-free status while continuing investments in infrastructure development.
By 2027, he assured that Sarawak would have completed and paid off major infrastructure projects from the first phase of PCDS 2030, including electricity, water supply, coastal roads and trunk roads, totaling over RM20 billion.
“With that, our journey is clear, and both the private and public sectors will work together to propel our economy for further growth.
“With the RM100 billion injection from the government, excluding the contributions from the private sector, our economic trajectory will remain focused.
“We hope that by then, Sarawak will be a prosperous state shared by all its citizens,” he added.
