By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Nov 9: In a diverse and multicultural region like Sarawak, a strict meritocratic approach falls short.
Senator Abun Sui Anyit highlighted the need for targeted economic policies, similar to those implemented by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, to uplift disadvantaged communities and achieve a more balanced economic landscape seen across Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak.
He pointed out that Sarawak’s economy and wealth distribution remain highly unequal, with rural areas, particularly among the Dayak, lagging significantly in development.
“Rural residents, especially the Dayak, often lack access to essential infrastructure—such as roads, clean water, internet, and electricity—which prevents them from competing on an equal footing with urban populations,” he stated in a press release today.
He pointed out that expecting rural communities to perform at the same level as urban counterparts overlooks the significant disparities in resources and opportunities.
While urban development and export growth are commendable, he stressed that equal focus and investment are urgently needed in rural areas.
To promote fairer resource distribution, Abun, also a Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) Central Leadership Committee member, urged the government and private sector to adopt inclusive policies that support all racial and economic groups.
“It is time for a comprehensive policy overhaul that ensures equitable growth and gives rural populations the support needed to thrive alongside urban areas,” he added.
Abun expressed hope that this focus on inclusivity and balance will be reflected in the upcoming 2025 Sarawak Budget, set to be tabled on Monday (Nov 11) during the Sarawak Legislative Assembly sitting. — DayakDaily
