KUCHING: The 2026 Sarawak Budget is expected to continue the state’s progressive and inclusive momentum, balancing economic growth with social wellbeing, supporting innovation, digitalisation, and green initiatives while ensuring every community benefits from inclusive development.
The Federation of Chinese Associations (FCA) of Sarawak President, Datuk Seri Richard Wee Liang Chiat, said that while transitioning from a resource-based to a knowledge-driven economy is challenging, continued fiscal support is crucial to making this transformation a reality.
“Both the public and private sectors must be empowered to harness data, adopt automation, and embrace digital transformation, not only to enhance efficiency but to ensure innovation benefits all communities.
“As Sarawak continues to progress and prosper, we must also ensure that every layer of society is cared for and included in this journey.
“The Budget should therefore continue to expand programmes and initiatives that promote compassion, empathy, and social harmony – strengthening the very fabric of our diverse communities,” he told Sarawak Tribune when contacted.
He added that the federal government’s Budget 2026 theme of “raising the floor and raising the ceiling” aligns closely with Sarawak’s Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), emphasising inclusive prosperity while driving high-value, sustainable growth.
As such, Sarawak is undergoing comprehensive infrastructure development, both physical and digital.
Wee said the state’s focus on “raising the ceiling” resonates with its push toward high-value, innovation-driven sectors and a sustainable economy using green technologies.
“Sarawak has already taken a leadership role in renewable energy development, digital infrastructure, and the circular economy.
“Initiatives such as the Sarawak 2030 Sustainability Blueprint, Hydrogen Economy Roadmap, and Waste-to-Value programmes are tangible expressions of this alignment.
By investing in research, technology, and talent development, Sarawak is building the capacity to compete regionally and globally, thereby expanding its economic ceiling and future potential,” he said.
He also stressed the importance of supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through AI and cybersecurity training, digital infrastructure expansion, and financial assistance via loans and grants.
“The SME sector forms the backbone of Sarawak’s business community, and targeted assistance will help strengthen local enterprises, improve competitiveness, and build resilience in an evolving economic landscape.
“Concurrently, Budget 2026 also commits on institutional reforms for a more agile, digital, performance-oriented public sector to enhance service delivery to facilitate a conducive business and investment environment for our SMEs,” he said.
“Last but not least, better fiscal governance and targeted subsidies mean that allocations can potentially be delivered more effectively and equitably in Sarawak, helping to ensure that our rural communities’ benefit.”
