By Nigel Edgar
KUCHING, Oct 25: Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg has found a new way for the state to generate revenue.
He said he would only announce it on Nov 5 when tabling State Budget 2019, but he hinted the state would tap its “natural resources” to the fullest.
Launching Sarawak Agrofest 2018 at Penview Convention Centre (PCC) here today, he told those present that in the past, the state had no idea how to tap the said resources and generate income from it.
“If we want to uplift the farmers in the rural areas, whether you like it or not, we have to do it (spend state funds). Let me worry about finding the funds with my cabinet friends.
“Insyaallah, wait for Nov 5, and I will announce (it). I have a way (to generate income for the state). Not today. Actually, we have these resources all this while, but in the past, we have forgotten how to gain from it,” he said.
Abang Johari said returns from earnings of the resources would be used to fund infrastructure development efforts, like rural electrification and water grid projects.
This, in turn, would provide the prerequisite to transforming the rural economy through modern agricultural activities.
“That is our (state government) approach. We are consistent. We do what we promise,” he assured. — DayakDaily
