By Amanda L
KUCHING, Nov 4: Sarawak’s state-owned enterprises (SOEs) must balance commercial performance with their responsibility to support the State’s economic development priorities, says Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
“As their roles evolve, we must ensure that they operate with clear mandates, sound governance and strong accountability while maintaining the commercial discipline needed to remain sustainable and competitive,” he said when officiating at the Civil Service Day 2026 celebration at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) today.
Abang Johari called for closer cooperation among SOEs, government-linked companies (GLCs), the private sector, investors, universities, research institutions and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to create more opportunities for investment, innovation and economic growth.
He identified renewable energy, the energy transition, the hydrogen economy, the digital economy, artificial intelligence (AI), advanced manufacturing and semiconductors as key sectors in Sarawak’s move towards a high-value economy.
“These industries require different forms of expertise, technology and investment, making collaboration between government, industry, and research institutions essential to realising their full potential,” he explained.
He said the State government would set the strategic direction and create an enabling environment while industry would drive investment and innovation.
“Together we create opportunities for the people, including job creation,” he said.
Abang Johari also stressed that local businesses, particularly SMEs, must be able to participate in these emerging industries.
“Stronger linkages between SOEs, larger companies and local businesses can help our SMEs gain access to markets, technology, expertise and higher-value supply chains,” he added.
He said such partnerships would strengthen local businesses and help them build the capabilities needed to grow alongside Sarawak’s economic transformation. — DayakDaily
