By Karen Bong and Shikin Louis
2025 will be remembered as a defining year for Sarawak — a year marked by bold firsts, decisive leadership and transformative progress. From becoming the first State in Malaysia to offer free tertiary education to its own people, to launching its own airline, unveiling world-first semiconductor innovations, passing landmark legislations and opening a wave of long-awaited bridges, Sarawak moved with uncommon clarity of purpose and confidence.
Driven by a long-term development vision, Sarawak pushed beyond convention, choosing to invest in its people, connectivity, technology and governance at a scale rarely seen at the sub-national level. These milestones were not isolated achievements, but part of a coherent strategy to future-proof Sarawak’s economy, strengthen its autonomy and ensure that progress reaches every corner of the State, from urban centres to rural heartlands.
As Sarawak navigated a rapidly changing global and domestic landscape, 2025 stood out as the year it did not merely keep pace, but set new benchmarks. In doing so, Sarawak reaffirmed its ambition to lead, to innovate and to chart its own path forward, anchored in inclusivity, sustainability and long-term prosperity for Anak Sarawak.
Free university education for Anak Sarawak
Sarawak marked a historic milestone in education with the launch of the Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES) on Dec 18, becoming the first State in Malaysia and the wider region to offer free university education to its own citizens.
Launched by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, the first batch of 4,693 existing university students will continue their studies with tuition fees fully borne by the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government beginning in 2026. Notably, the initiative comes without quotas and is extended to Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) holders from Chinese independent schools, underscoring Sarawak’s inclusive education policy.
With an allocation of RM250 million, about 10,000 Sarawakian students are expected to benefit from FTES, enabling them to pursue 64 identified courses at State-owned institutions, including Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak, Curtin University Malaysia, University of Technology Sarawak (UTS), and i-CATS University College.
To further support students from low-income and B40 households, FTES also provides additional financial assistance of up to RM15,000 per year, comprising RM5,000 for accommodation through designated SIHL Housing Units and RM10,000 in living expenses via SPay Global.
The initiative aims to build a future-ready and highly skilled workforce by removing financial barriers to higher education, with a strong focus on high-demand fields such as STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics), Law, Medicine, Accounting, and Finance. Significant State funding has been earmarked to ensure the long-term sustainability of the programme.
AirBorneo takes to the skies
Sarawak made aviation history on Feb 12, unveiling its own regional airline, AirBorneo, making it the first Malaysian State to own and operate an airline.
The airline is scheduled to commence operations in January 2026, initially focusing on rural air services across Sarawak, Sabah and Labuan, before expanding into regional jet operations by July 2026. AirBorneo was formed following Sarawak’s acquisition of MASwings, the turboprop operator previously under Malaysia Airlines.
AirBorneo is set to play a pivotal role in enhancing regional connectivity within Sarawak and across the wider Borneo region, offering modern, reliable and accessible air travel, particularly for rural and underserved communities.
Its official logo, “Wings of Unity”, was unveiled on Aug 21, together with the tagline “Borneo For You”, reflecting the airline’s vision of purposeful travel, cultural celebration and community connectivity across borders.
On Dec 10, AirBorneo officially launched its website and call centre, marking the start of ticket sales ahead of the formal takeover of MASwings operations by the end of December.
The State government’s investment in AirBorneo forms part of a broader strategy to stimulate economic growth, recognising the importance of air connectivity in Sarawak’s vast geography. By maintaining and expanding regional routes, AirBorneo is expected to boost tourism, trade and economic integration across Borneo, while reinforcing Sarawak’s long-term commitment to infrastructure development and global connectivity.
World’s first AI power-switching chip by Sarawak talent
Sarawak achieved a technological breakthrough in 2025 with the introduction of KETEQ AI, the world’s first artificial intelligence-based power conversion device, developed entirely by Sarawakian talent.
Premier unveiled the innovation during his official visit to the CSA Catapult facility in Cardiff, Wales, on April 29.
KETEQ AI is an Edge AI Power Converter capable of detecting and correcting system disturbances automatically in under 0.1 milliseconds, placing it among the most responsive and advanced systems in smart control and power electronics worldwide. The achievement is a major outcome of the Sarawak Semiconductor Roadmap 2030 and Beyond, which aims to position Sarawak as a regional high-tech and innovation hub.
The momentum continued on Sept 24, when Sarawak, through SMD Semiconductor, unveiled further breakthroughs in London, including keteq.GaN, a Gallium Nitride-based power device, and the AI-driven keteq.ai power converter.
The launch at Microelectronics UK, ExCeL London, also saw the signing of two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with international strategic partners, marking a significant step forward in Sarawak’s semiconductor and green technology ambitions. Abang Johari officiated the event and witnessed the exchange of MoUs alongside Richard Shaddick, Senior Delivery Manager for Inward Investment of the Welsh government.
The milestone underscored Sarawak’s emergence not just as a participant, but as a leader in global semiconductor innovation and the green economy, aligned with its vision of becoming a globally competitive semiconductor hub.
Satria Pertiwi Complex ushers in a new era for Sarawak’s administration
As Sarawak continued to move forward on multiple fronts in 2025, its administration also entered a new chapter with the unveiling of the Satria Pertiwi Complex on Aug 4, the Premier’s new official office complex in Petra Jaya.
Built on a sprawling 19.17-acre site, the complex provides a safe and secure digital working environment for the Sarawak Premier’s Office, replacing Wisma Bapa Malaysia as the base of the State’s top leadership and supporting Sarawak’s push for digitalisation and modern governance.
Premier previously explained that the old Wisma Bapa Malaysia was too open to the public for sensitive operations, making the new complex a necessary nerve centre as Sarawak takes on expanding responsibilities and increasingly complex governance tasks.
Spanning approximately 146,000 square feet, the complex comprises four main blocks, including a three-storey Premier’s Office with administrative offices, cabinet meeting and dining rooms, a conference room and a public gallery.
It also includes a public registration building, staff quarters, a surau and a fully air-conditioned multipurpose hall for up to 360 guests, all elegantly designed with Islamic motifs, chandeliers and modern audio-visual systems.
Meeting global administrative and security standards, the complex is protected by multi-layered security, including high-security fencing, CCTV and facial recognition access control.
More than just a building, the Satria Pertiwi Complex symbolises Sarawak’s growing confidence in managing its own affairs and building institutions capable of supporting the State’s long-term development ambitions.
Sarawak Premier honoured with Japan’s prestigious Order of the Rising Sun
In a landmark moment for Sarawak on the international stage, Premier was conferred The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star by Emperor Naruhito of Japan on Nov 11, one of the country’s highest honours recognising outstanding contributions to international relations and cooperation.
The Embassy of Japan in Malaysia, which first broke the news through its Facebook post on Nov 3, stated that the conferment was part of Japan’s 2025 Autumn Imperial Decorations for foreign nationals.
As the only recipient from Borneo this year, Abang Johari described the accolade as a historic recognition of more than 30 years of cooperation he helped cultivate between Sarawak and Japan.
The Japanese government noted his contributions in attracting major companies such as Toko Electronics (Sarawak) Sdn Bhd and Taiyo Yuden (Sarawak) Sdn Bhd to the Samajaya Industrial Zone during his tenure as Minister of Industrial Development.
It also highlighted his early efforts to strengthen bilateral economic ties through the Malaysia–Japan Economic Association (MAJECA) and the Japan–Malaysia Economic Association (JAMECA), as well as his support for reforestation collaborations between the Sarawak and Japanese governments.
This prestigious recognition not only honours an individual leader but also symbolises Sarawak’s growing role as a valued partner on the international stage, showcasing the State’s commitment to innovation, sustainability and people-to-people exchange.
A bountiful harvest of bridges for Sarawak
Photo: Jabatan Kerja Raya Sarawak
Sarawak recorded a landmark year for infrastructure development in 2025, completing and opening at least eight major bridges, earning the description of a “bountiful harvest” for the State.
Among the earliest was the Muara Lassa Bridge, the second-longest bridge in Sarawak, opened to public use on Jan 9 and officially officiated on Feb 22. Spanning 2.43 kilometres and costing RM597.58 million, the bridge connects Daro and Mukah, significantly improving coastal connectivity and economic prospects.
This was followed by the RM116.5 million Marudi Bridge, inaugurated on Jan 17. Spanning 650 metres across Batang Baram, along with an 800-metre JKR R5 standard road, it eliminated ferry dependence and improved access to essential services.
The Batang Rajang Bridge, renamed Tun Datuk Patinggi Tuanku Haji Bujang Tuanku Haji Othman Bridge, was officially opened on May 17. Valued at RM321 million, the 1.4-kilometre bridge reduced travel time between Sarikei and Tanjung Manis from over two and a half hours to just 45 minutes.
Another iconic structure, the Bintulu-Jepak Bridge, renamed Tun Taib Mahmud Bridge, was opened on March 23. Costing RM467 million, the 1.2-kilometre cable-stayed bridge links Bintulu town centre to Jepak and the Samalaju Industrial Park and has earned the nickname “Sarawak’s Golden Gate” for its striking design.
In Betong, the Batang Saribas 1 Bridge, costing RM375.5 million, opened ahead of Hari Raya Aidilfitri, forming a key component of the Sarawak Coastal Road Project and serving as an alternative route to the Pan Borneo Highway.
The Sungai Bintangor Bridge in Kuching, renamed Datuk Amar Juma’ani Bridge, was opened on Aug 5. With a contract value of RM50.6 million, the 108.5-metre bridge features a central tower supported by three massive columns and enhances traffic flow in the city centre.
Rounding out the year, the Sebauh Bridge, spanning 728.56 metres across Batang Kemena, opened on Dec 6, fully replacing ferry services and strengthening connectivity for surrounding communities.
These projects form part of Sarawak’s broader Coastal Road Network and connectivity push, with dozens of bridges planned to replace ferry routes and link coastal and interior regions. According to Deputy Premier and Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Sarawak is investing RM7.316 billion across 143 bridge projects, including 21 major bridges valued at RM6.92 billion and 122 rural bridges under the Rural Bridge Transformation Programme (RBTP).
New legislations going into force in Sarawak
Sarawak’s legislative landscape saw major developments in 2025, with a special sitting of the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) on July 7, witnessed the passing of the Dewan Undangan Negeri (Composition of Membership) Bill, 2025.
The Bill provides for an increase in elected representatives from 82 to 99 seats, the largest expansion in the State’s history, aimed at ensuring fairer representation across Sarawak’s vast and diverse constituencies. The move aligns with Sarawak’s broader aspirations under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), including the push for one-third parliamentary representation for Sabah and Sarawak in the Dewan Rakyat. The next steps involve seat delineation by the Election Commission (EC) and subsequent approval by Parliament.
On Nov 24, the Assembly also passed the Constitution of the State of Sarawak (Amendment) Bill, 2025, allowing for the appointment of up to four additional Cabinet members. The amendment addresses growing administrative demands following the increase in constituencies, strengthening executive capacity and policy coordination.
Other significant legislations passed during the year included:
• Local Authorities (Amendment) Bill 2025, increasing the number of councillors from 30 to 33 across five local councils;
• Sarawak Biodiversity Centre (Amendment) Bill 2025, aimed at unlocking economic potential in pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, cosmeceuticals and bioindustries while strengthening enforcement and protecting Sarawak’s rights;
• Land Code (Amendment) Bill 2025, introducing severe penalties for illegal transportation of rock materials beyond State borders;
• Building (Amendment) Bill 2025, paving the way for the establishment of the Sarawak Building Board (SBB) and stricter enforcement of green building standards;
• Sustainable Resources and Wastes Management Bill 2025, establishing a comprehensive legal framework and a dedicated authority to regulate sustainable resource and waste management across Sarawak.
The January flood that tested Bintulu
Late January 2025 will be remembered as one of the most challenging months in recent memory for Bintulu, a time when the skies and rivers converged to test the resilience of the State and its people.
From Jan 28 to 30, continuous heavy rain combined with a king tide unleashed what many residents described as the worst flood in Bintulu’s history. Waters rose rapidly across town and surrounding areas, inundating neighbourhoods that had never seen such devastation and forcing thousands to abandon their homes for higher ground.
Nearly 2,000 people were evacuated to temporary relief centres, while thousands more from affected areas sought shelter as floodwaters surged. Families watched helplessly as furniture, appliances, and cherished belongings were swept away. Some found themselves stranded, waiting for rescue as streets became submerged. Residents recounted harrowing moments, with homes surrounded by relentless currents, and entire neighbourhoods were described as resembling islands cut off from normal life.
Abang Johari reportedly said the flood that inundated many parts of Bintulu town and its surrounding areas was caused by 900mm of rain in a single day. Deeming it a “great flood,” he described it as unprecedented in Bintulu, noting that the town normally receives about 100mm of rain a year.
In the midst of the crisis, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Dato Seri Tiong King Sing, the Bintulu MP, drew attention when he was seen wading through floodwaters to personally assess the severity of the situation. He and other local leaders acknowledged shortcomings in drainage infrastructure as a contributing factor, urging long-term improvements to prevent a repeat of such a catastrophic event.
Meanwhile, volunteers, rescue teams and ordinary citizens worked tirelessly, supporting evacuations, offering shelter and distributing essentials to those displaced.
The January flood of 2025 was more than a natural disaster. It was a shared experience of loss, courage and community spirit. As the State moves forward, the flood remains a sobering reminder of the power of nature and the importance of preparedness in a changing climate.
Notable figures we lost in 2025
As 2025 draws to a close, Sarawak remembers not only its milestones and achievements but also the figures whose lives shaped the State and whose absence is deeply felt.
Nov 11 saw the passing of Tan Sri Tiong Hiew King, the founder and chairman of Sarawak timber firm Rimbunan Hijau Group, whose influence stretched far beyond the State’s borders. From building one of Malaysia’s largest timber empires to shaping the media landscape, his vision and determination made him a household name. In 2025, he and his family were ranked the 25th richest in Malaysia by Forbes.
Equally poignant was the loss of Puan Sri Datuk Amar Juma’ani Tuanku Bujang, the beloved wife of Premier Abang Johari Tun Openg, on June 23. While she held no political office, her quiet yet impactful presence in charitable work and community service left an indelible mark. Her warmth, dedication, and generosity touched countless families across the State, making her passing a deeply personal loss for many.
Sarawak also bid farewell to respected figures such as Sarawakian hero Corporal Kuda Kendawang on Jan 17; former Lubok Antu MP Datuk William Nyalau Badak on Jan 21; veteran journalist and author James Alexander Ritchie on May 2; veteran Bidayuh leader Datuk Amar Dominic Andrew Dago on May 15; and the mother of Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Puan Sri Datin Amar Lim Su Kheng, on Nov 17.
Each of these figures, in their own way, contributed to the tapestry of Sarawak’s identity — through leadership, service or the simple yet profound act of caring for their community. As Sarawakians step into 2026, their legacies serve as reminders of the power of dedication, vision and compassion.
DayakDaily’s Homestay Odyssey: A hunt for local narratives and experiences
From Feb 27 to March 8, DayakDaily’s D’Drift 2025 team embarked on the 10-day Homestay Odyssey expedition, exploring off-the-beaten-path homestays and accommodations across central and southern Sarawak.
The team captured village life and local traditions, documenting untold stories and sharing an intimate glimpse into the warmth of Sarawakian hospitality.
Along the way, they delivered 1,052 books and 10 large bags of soft toys to children in Tarat, supporting literacy and bringing joy to these remote communities.
This was followed by DayakDaily’s third annual writing competition, themed ‘Homestay Odyssey’, which drew 111 entries from across Sarawak, where participants shared memorable homestay experiences highlighting culture, community, and hospitality.
The competition concluded with an awards ceremony celebrating the 20 shortlisted winners, officiated by Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (MTCP) Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
Together, D’Drift and the Homestay Odyssey competition not only showcased Sarawak’s off-grid destinations but also celebrated the voices and stories of the people who make these places meaningful — from cultural traditions to personal reflections that resonated with readers across the State.
As 2025 draws to a close, Sarawak can look back on a year defined by firsts, bold initiatives and the dedication of its people. From free university education and the launch of AirBorneo to world-first technological innovations, landmark infrastructure projects, cultural journeys like the Homestay Odyssey and the celebration of local leaders and voices, the State has charted a path of progress and inclusivity. Looking ahead to 2026, the foundations laid this year promise continued growth, stronger communities and stories yet to be told across every corner of Sarawak. — DayakDaily
