Abang Johari delivering his opening address at the conference. — Information Department photo
KUCHING (Dec 3): The private sector has shown significant interest in Sarawak’s two major projects, the Tanjung Embang Deep Sea Port and the new Kuching International Airport (KIA), said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
This was highlighted in his speech for the opening of the ‘2025 Sarawak Budget Conference’ at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) today.
Moreover, The Premier also said that these two large-scale projects would be developed under the second phase of the Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
Adding on, he expressed confidence that with the government’s injection of RM100 billion, along with the expectation of further contributions from the private sector, Sarawak’s economic trajectory would remain on course.
“In 2027, we will inject another RM100 billion into our economy (slated for) between 2025 and 2030. This RM100 billion includes two major projects that will have a significant impact on our economy.
“The public and private sectors will collaborate, driving further economic growth,” he said.
The Premier also stressed about the importance of collective efforts, pointing out that Sarawak’s progress was not determined by the efforts of any one individual, but by the united commitment of all sides – the government, private enterprises, academia, civil societies, and the citizens.
“We must harness the collective strength of partnerships between the public sector, private enterprises, and civil societies, as these collaborations are essential towards driving innovation, investments and inclusive development across Sarawak.”
Abang Johari also highlighted Sarawak’s opportunity to showcase its strengths on a regional platform, in view of Malaysia preparing to assume the Asean Chair next year.
“Our contributions to renewable energy, digital transformation, and sustainable agriculture will reinforce Malaysia’s leadership in Asean, whilst creating new pathways for collaborations and trade.”
The Premier also highlighted the establishment of Nusantara, Indonesia’s new capital in Kalimantan, as a significant opportunity for Sarawak, with its proximity opening vast potential for cross-border economic collaboration, particularly in trade, logistics and tourism.
“By strengthening connectivity and collaboration with our neighbours, we can further integrate Sarawak into the regional economy, and enhance our position as a strategic gateway for Asean.”
Abang Johari added that Sarawak’s gross domestic product (GDP) growth was projected to surpass five per cent next year, driven by strategic investments in infrastructure and green technology, all despite the global challenges.
“For Year 2025, Sarawak budget has been meticulously crafted with an unprecedented allocation of RM15.8 billion to ensure sustainable economic growth, while prioritising key sectors that drive Sarawak’s prosperity.”
The conference, organised via the collaboration of SALIHIN, Sarawak Centre of Performance Excellence (SCOPE), and the Sarawak Civil Service (SCS), with Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group Inc (MUFG) as key sponsor, concludes today.
Its objective is to provide a comprehensive understanding of how the 2025 Malaysia Madani Budget and the 2025 Sarawak Budget align with Sarawak’s goals of becoming a high-income, diversified and sustainable economy.
A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was also exchanged between SALIHIN and SCOPE at the BCCK, witnessed by Abang Johari and other dignitaries.
On this, the Premier hailed the partnership as ‘exemplifying the spirit of collaboration driving Sarawak forward by strengthening human capital development, fostering digital transformation, nurturing sustainable progress, and positioning Sarawak at the forefront of innovation and excellence’.
Also present were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, SCOPE chief executive officer Joseph Lim, SALIHIN founder and group managing partner Dr Salihin Abang.
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