KUCHING: Sarawak’s sweeping infrastructure and industrial expansion plans will generate massive demand for engineering expertise, consultancy services, and multi-contractor collaborations over the next decade.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the state’s major infrastructure developments including the construction of a state-of-the-art airport and a deep-sea port at Tanjong Embang reflect the strength of Sarawak’s economy and its capacity to undertake projects of international scale.
“I believe that in the next five to 10 years, we will continue with our plan to upgrade Sarawak’s infrastructure. This means road construction, water treatment, and water distribution will continue, as well as the development of many new administrative buildings across our districts and divisions.
“There will be many job opportunities up to 2030 and beyond. On top of that, there are anchor projects that will be implemented between now and 2030 — and even beyond,” he said.
He was speaking during the Sarawak Bumiputera Consulting Engineers Association (GJPBS) anniversary dinner and Engineers Award 2025 at UNIFOR complex here, last night.
He said the state is going to build a state-of-the-art airport at Tanjong Embang involving multiple consultancy services because it cannot be done by one contractor.
“This airport will have two runways, advanced IT systems, and world-class facilities — it will be of the latest generation, modeled after Doha Airport. Once completed, it will be the airport in Malaysia, with facilities even better,” he added.
Abang Johari said apart from the airport, the Tanjong Embang Port project will also be a major undertaking requiring extensive engineering and construction work.
Built on reclaimed land seven kilometres offshore, the port will include a general cargo terminal, an oil terminal, pipelines, and extensive access infrastructure.
“The Tanjong Embang complex will become an emerging township and industrial area. These anchor projects will create a lot of job opportunities for the business and professional community,” he said.
He acknowledged that financing such large-scale projects remains a challenge, but assured that the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government is committed to sourcing funds to sustain the momentum.
Abang Johari noted that the state’s economy remains stable, with a projected gross domestic product (GDP) target of RM282 billion on track and a healthy financial position despite global challenges.
He said the upcoming state budget, to be tabled next month, would further strengthen development allocations.
He also pledged to hold discussions with professional bodies including the Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM), surveyors, and planners to streamline payment procedures and ensure smoother implementation of ongoing projects.
