By Nur Ashikin Louis
KUCHING, Nov 21: Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has tabled the proposed Sarawak Budget of RM10.797 billion for next year.
Of the total, RM3.997 billion is for operating expenditure while a sum of RM6.8 billion is for appropriation to the Development Fund Account to finance the implementation of various development programmes and projects.
“The budgeted operating expenditure comprises RM938 million or 24 per cent for personnel emoluments; RM1.508 billion or 38 per cent for supplies and services; RM1.343 billion or 34 per cent for grants and fixed payments which includes operating grants to statutory bodies and local authorities, servicing of public debts and payments of gratuities, pensions, scholarships, including financial and welfare assistances; RM90 million for procurement of assets; and RM118 million for other operating expenses,” he said when tabling the Supply (2023) Bill 2022 during the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting here today.
Abang Johari further said that with Sarawak’s projected revenue of RM11.035 billion and total expenditure of RM10.797 billion, the Budget is expected to generate a surplus of RM238 million.
The Bill also sought approval for the Development Expenditure Estimates for 2023 for an additional expenditure of RM7.506 billion whereby RM4.54 billion or 60 per cent will be for development in rural areas.
On revenue estimates, Abang Johari said Sarawak is projected to collect revenue of RM11.035 billion for next year.
“This is the highest ever revenue projected thus far, reflecting our relative achievement in boosting the State coffer,” he elaborated.
The projected revenue is derived from tax revenue totalling RM5.246 billion or 48 per cent, non-tax revenue estimated at RM5.498 billion or 50 per cent, non-revenue receipt at RM26 million as well as federal grants and reimbursements at RM265 million. — DayakDaily
