KUCHING: Sarawak Patriotic Association (SPA) congratulated Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg for tabling a people-oriented budget at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) today.
Its president, Datuk John Lau Peng Hang, noted that the state budget of RM11.914 billion was a record for the state, and out of which 76 per cent would be for development.
“The amount of RM6.049 billion for rural development showed that the state government is stimulating a high level of economic activities and economic progress for Sarawak.
“The state government prioritises high-impact and people-centric projects, particularly in the rural areas. The state government is committed to complete the implementation of the on-going projects,” said Lau in a press statement.
He also lauded the state government for introducing a RM1,000 incentive for every newborn Sarawakian.
“This may encourage a population boom in Sarawak, besides the newborns would have a saving by the time they reach 18.”
Lau commented that the allocation of RM1.105 billion for roads and jetties would improve connectivity across the state and bring road links to be at par with those in the peninsula.
On the allocation of RM141 million to build 1,827 units of affordable houses under Rumah Mampu Milik and Rimaj Spektra Permata, Lau said it showed that the state government cared about the wellbeing of its people.
“This will be able to help house ownership in Sarawak.”
He also applauded the RM85.3 million allocation for the implementation and completion of industrial estates in Sarawak and for implementing electricity and water supplies in the rural areas.
The setting aside of RM81.7 million for the reconstruction, repair and upgrading of dilapidated schools also received the thumbs up.
“SPA is disappointed that the federal government has yet to disburse the payment of RM1 billion allocation for dilapidated schools. Hence, SPA is proud of the Sarawak government for allocating funds for such schools.”
Lau urged all Sarawakians to stand by the state government under the leadership of Abang Johari, particularly to discuss and demand the return of Sarawak rights as enshrined in the Malaysia Agreement, 1963. — DayakDaily
