By Wilfred Pilo
KUCHING, July 16: Local authorities across Sarawak have been urged to go beyond their traditional regulatory role and transform into key drivers of development, investment and better public services as the State moves towards building trusted, smart and sustainable institutions.
Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said local authorities, as the level of government closest to the people, are instrumental in ensuring that the State’s development initiatives are effectively implemented and deliver meaningful benefits to communities.
He said Sarawak’s development journey is not only about carrying out projects, but about laying the foundation for a modern, sustainable and competitive future under the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
“Good policies alone are not enough. They require strong institutions, effective implementation and capable leadership at every level of government,” he said in his text speech at the opening of the Sarawak Local Authority Conference 2026 at a hotel here today.
His speech was read and officiated on his behalf by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, who is also Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government.
Abang Johari said local authorities must evolve from being regulatory bodies into development-oriented institutions that facilitate investment, support local businesses and create liveable communities where people can work, prosper and thrive.
He stressed that efficient public services, transparent processes, quality infrastructure and ease of doing business are key factors in attracting investment, strengthening economic growth and generating employment opportunities.
The Premier also called on local authorities to embrace digital transformation by making greater use of Digital Government initiatives, including Sarawak ID, S Pay Global and data-driven decision-making, to improve service delivery and respond more effectively to public needs.
“The adoption of technology and artificial intelligence (AI) must be underpinned by strong governance, reliable data and the preservation of public trust,” he emphasised.
Abang Johari outlined five major challenges facing local authorities, including integrating digital transformation and AI, addressing climate change, enhancing economic competitiveness, managing rapid urbanisation and demographic shifts, and strengthening public confidence.
To address these challenges, he proposed five transformation pillars for local authorities: becoming trusted institutions, adopting smart and data-driven governance, focusing on outcomes for the people, promoting sustainability and resilience, and driving local economic growth.
Looking ahead, he said the State’s vision of “PBT Sarawak 2030: Trusted, Smart and Sustainable” would see local authorities playing a greater role in championing innovation, strengthening governance and delivering high-quality services while balancing economic development with environmental stewardship and community well-being.
He called on local authorities to strengthen collaboration with government agencies, the private sector, academia and communities to build stronger towns and cities for future generations.
“Sarawak is not waiting for the future. Sarawak is creating its own future,” he said, adding that strong local authorities are essential to ensuring every development policy translates into real benefits for the people.
Also in attendance were Minister in the Premier’s Department Dato Sri John Sikie Tayai, Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Integrity and Ombudsman) Datuk Juanda Jaya, Deputy Minister for Public Health and Housing Datuk Penguang Manggil, Deputy Minister of Local Government Datuk Michael Tiang and other distinguished guests. — DayakDaily
