KUCHING, Nov 4: A total of RM9.891 billion has been allocated under State Budget 2020, of which RM6.6 billion is for development expenditure and the remaining RM3.3 billion is for operating expenditure.
“This is in line with the state’s initiatives to transform the rural areas and ensure that no one will be left behind and the 2020 development budget will continue to be rural-biased,” Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg said during his Sarawak Budget 2020 speech at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting today.
He said the budget will focus on six key strategic thrusts aimed at stimulating state economic growth towards inclusive, sustainable and equitable development for all spectrums of society.
“The State will vigorously continue to pursue its development agenda towards achieving a high income economy by 2030 using our own mould. Therefore, a considerable allocation will be allocated for the provision of basic facilities and amenities including roads and bridges, rural water and electricity supplies, as well as other people-centric projects under the Eleventh Malaysia Plan and this will continue under the Twelfth Malaysia Plan,” he added.
The digital economy will continue to be the main enabler in the state government’s effort to transform Sarawak into a knowledge-based and innovation-driven economy.
Abang Johari asserted that it will be intensified further through the creation of a comprehensive digital ecosystem, talent development and entrepreneurship culture.
The state will also continue to spur economic development through further broadening of its investment base.
“These investments will focus on higher value-added activities in the manufacturing and services sectors, as well as resource-based industries such as oil and gas, agriculture, bio-tech, and timber processing industries.
“On top of federal investment incentives, the state also offers an attractive incentive package in terms of competitive pricing of land, competitive electricity tariffs and water rates, low down payment for purchase of industrial land, and provision of facilities to ensure a conducive investment climate,” he said. — DayakDaily
