By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Oct 13: The RM6 billion allocation for Sarawak under Budget 2026 must be channelled efficiently and transparently into projects that directly uplift local communities without excessive bureaucracy or delays caused by federal red tape.
In a statement, Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap said although Sarawak continues to contribute significantly to the national economy, the challenges faced by ordinary Sarawakians—particularly in infrastructure, education, and healthcare—remain disproportionate to the State’s economic contribution.
At the same time, while he welcomed the increased allocations for Sarawak and Sabah, Yap said what Sarawak deserves is not a temporary boost, but a permanent, formula-based development allocation framework that recognises the State as one of the three equal partners of Malaysia.
Therefore, he echoed the Sarawak government’s stand and called for the following:
- A clear, formula-based regional allocation mechanism under Article 112D of the Federal Constitution—ensuring predictable and fair development funding for Sarawak and Sabah as equal partners, not just as States.
- Devolution of authority in key sectors such as health, education, and public works, allowing Sarawak to plan, hire, and implement projects based on local realities and needs.
- Greater transparency and local oversight to ensure every ringgit reaches the people through efficient delivery, from major infrastructure down to grassroots initiatives and local councils.
“The spirit of MA63 is about partnership, equality, and respect. Development for Sarawak must not be seen as a favour, but as a rightful obligation of the federation to its founding regions.
“Budget 2026 is a reminder that while progress is being made, Sarawak’s journey toward full fiscal and administrative empowerment is far from complete.” — DayakDaily
