By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Nov 11: Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has called for stronger unity among Sarawakians so that no one will be able to divide and rule Sarawak.
He highlighted that while the federal allocation for Sarawak’s development has increased from RM5.8 billion to RM5.9 billion in the 2025 National Budget, it still falls short of addressing the significant development gaps between Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia.
“Considering Sarawak’s substantial contribution to national economic development and federal coffers, particularly through revenues from oil and gas, I urge the federal government to consider allocating a significantly larger budget to Sarawak in its future financial plans,” he said when tabling the Sarawak Budget 2025 at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) Sitting today.
Although Sarawak has made considerable progress over the past seven years, Abang Johari acknowledged that the path ahead will not be easy, with many challenges and forces that may attempt to divide the State.
“But, as long as we are all in this together, and we all have a part to play, no one will be able to divide and rule us. Let us turn our challenges into opportunities and constraints into strengths.
“We, in the GPS (Gabungan Parti Sarawak) government, will do more to provide opportunities and assurances at every stage of life. Everyone in our society should contribute towards our shared goals and aspirations in our own way—’Mengikut acuan kita sendiri, nitih cuan kitai empu’,” he stressed.
In unveiling the largest-ever budget for 2025, with an expenditure of RM15.8 billion and a target revenue of RM14.2 billion, Abang Johari emphasised: “We want to build a better Sarawak—not just for a few, but for all Sarawakians.”
This year’s budget, he said, is a clear testament to the Sarawak government’s strong commitment to advancing the State’s development agenda while helping the people address the cost of living and ensuring everyone benefits from progress.
“We want every Sarawakian to experience well-being and a dignified life, without ever feeling marginalised. We want to build a Sarawak that is vibrant and inclusive, fair and thriving, resilient, harmonious, and united.
“We will continue to preserve the environment and engage in addressing the challenges of climate change so that the development we achieve is sustainable, inclusive, and equitable,” he added.
Abang Johari expressed confidence that with the continued implementation of clear, progressive policies, political stability, strengthened unity among Sarawakians of all races and religions, and fair governance, Sarawak will emerge as a new economic powerhouse in Malaysia.
“This is the formula for Sarawak’s success that we must preserve forever. Therefore, the GPS government under my leadership will remain committed and determined to ensure that our vision to bring prosperity and propel Sarawak into a more glorious era by 2030 can be achieved,” he concluded. — DayakDaily
