By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Oct 10: Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg underscored the critical need to rethink Sarawak’s approach to sustainable economic growth, the well-being of its people, and the legacy it will leave for future generations.
He emphasised that true prosperity extends beyond financial success and must focus on building a society where everyone thrives.
Speaking at the Sarawak Future Forum 2024 held at a hotel here today, Abang Johari drew on insights from Nobel laureate Professor Joseph Stiglitz, who advocated moving beyond Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as the sole measure of success.
“His insights remind us that while GDP growth remains vital indicator, it does not capture the full picture of human progress.
“To truly measure our success, we must ask ourselves: Are we creating a society where everyone has a chance to succeed? Are we building a future where no one is left behind? These are the questions that must guide our work in the years ahead,” he said.
He reiterated that Sarawak’s development strategy is rooted in inclusivity, ensuring that the benefits of economic progress reach all segments of society.
“Social equity must be a guiding principle as we develop policies and programmes that ensure every Sarawakian, regardless of background, has access to opportunities for education, employment, and entrepreneurship,” he said.
Abang Johari also highlighted the importance of sustainability, saying that Sarawak is integrating environmental stewardship into its economic strategies.
Renewable energy sources like hydropower, solar, and biomass are being prioritised, in line with Sarawkak’s Post-Covid Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
“The PCDS 2030 lays out a clear roadmap for a diversified and sustainable economy that benefits all Sarawakians. Key initiatives include enhancing digital infrastructure and promoting green technology to ensure progress is both equitable and environmentally responsible.”
He noted that Sarawak, historically reliant on oil, gas, and timber, is diversifying its economy in response to global shifts towards low-carbon economies.
“Recognising the finite nature of traditional resources, we are pivoting towards renewable energy, digital innovation, and human capital development,” he said.
This transition, he explained, is central to Sarawak’s vision of a green economy that decouples economic growth from environmental degradation.
“Our shift prioritises sustainable development, ensuring long-term economic and ecological resilience while minimizing carbon emissions and resource depletion,” he added.
Abang Johari stressed that Sarawak’s future lies in aligning economic revitalisation with sustainability and innovation, creating a legacy of prosperity that benefits both people and planet.
The Forum, organised by the Sarawak Centre of Performance Excellence (SCOPE) and the Leadership Institute of Sarawak Civil Service (LISCS), is themed “Beyond GDP: Rethinking Success in the Future Economy.”
The event features Nobel Prize-winning economist Professor Joseph Stiglitz, CNN’s former presenter Andrew Stevens, Malaysian artist Red Hong Yi, and author of The Trillion Dollar Shift Marga Hoek, among others.
The forum brings together global experts, thought leaders, and practitioners from various fields to explore sustainable economic development strategies and opportunities for Sarawak as it advances toward 2030 and beyond.
Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Sarawak Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, and Deputy Sarawak Secretary (Economic Planning and Development) Datu Dr Muhammad Abdullah Zaidel were present. — DayakDaily
