KUCHING: Sarawakians have been urged to enter the New Year 2026 with renewed determination and a stronger spirit, while drawing lessons from the challenges faced over the past year to build a safer, more resilient and prosperous state.
In his Christmas 2025 and New Year 2026 message, Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar said 2025 had tested the resilience of the people, as Sarawak and the country recorded both achievements and significant challenges.
Among the incidents that occurred were landslides in Kampung Lereng Bukit, Miri, an increase in road accidents along the Pan Borneo Highway, fires involving longhouses, villages and individual homes, as well as flash floods.
He also highlighted several serious social issues, including bullying, road accidents and house fires.
“According to data from the Ministry of Education Malaysia, a total of 6,208 bullying cases involving physical, verbal and cyber abuse were recorded nationwide in 2024, indicating the seriousness of the issue.
“Local media reported that Sarawak recorded 19,964 road accident cases in 2024, which is an increase of 2.4 per cent compared with 19,498 cases in 2023, while a total of 15 house fire cases, involving longhouses and private homes, were reported this year, exposing ongoing fire safety risks.
“These incidents resulted in the loss of lives and property, and it is hoped that such cases can be reduced in the future,” he said, stressing the need for stronger cooperation between the government, local communities and relevant stakeholders.
Wan Junaidi said proactive measures in prevention, improvement and appropriate action must continue to be prioritised to prevent such incidents from escalating further.
Quoting the English proverb “prevention is better than cure”, he urged the public to learn from past experiences and move forward in a wiser, more cautious and progressive manner.
Looking ahead to 2026, Wan Junaidi said efforts would continue to build a Sarawak that is more advanced, prosperous, just and harmonious under the leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and his Cabinet.
He said the state government would remain focused on strengthening the economy, safeguarding the well-being of the people and promoting noble values within society.
“Therefore, I call upon all Sarawakians, wherever they may be and regardless of background, to unite and work hand in hand for a brighter future. Let us build a state that excels not only in development but is also rich in humanitarian values and environmental sustainability,” he said.
At the same time, Wan Junaidi stressed that cooperation between the people and the state government is key to the progress and stability of Sarawak.
“Without strong public support in upholding and backing the Government’s plans and policies, it would be difficult to achieve our aspiration of becoming a developed and prosperous region by 2030,” he added.
