By Ling Hui & Karen Bong
BINTULU, Nov 2: Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has hinted there would be a bonus for the Sarawak Civil Service in the upcoming Budget Sarawak 2024 announcement in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) Sitting from Nov 20 to 29.
Additionally, he is also expected to report Sarawak’s revenue for this year (2023), which he had previously indicated would surpass the milestone RM12 billion recorded last year.
“Sarawak aims to provide free tertiary education in our own universities by 2026 and I am working hard to increase our revenue to make this vision a reality.
“Insyaallah, the money will come in because our intention is good. In the upcoming Budget Sarawak announcement during the DUN Sitting this month, you will be informed of our financial performance and status.
“There is bonus lah,” he disclosed when addressing the Samalaju Greening Project and Supply of Sustainable Raw Material Through Bamboo Cultivations Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) exchange ceremony between Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC), Bintulu Development Authority (BDA) and Pertama Ferroalloys Sdn Bhd at a local hotel here yesterday (Nov 1).
Despite Sarawak achieving recognition as a high-income State in Malaysia ahead of its 2030 target, Abang Johari emphasised the need for further progress, especially considering that the State’s household income has yet to reach the national average.
He reiterated the significance of education and talent development, highlighting that enabling more Sarawakian children to pursue higher education is key to elevating income levels.
“In this high-technology era, university graduates can potentially earn a minimum of RM6,000 in salary. If there are two degree holders in a disadvantaged family, their household income can potentially reach RM12,000. This will uplift them from poverty or a lower-income bracket which may even extend to RM15,000,” he explained.
Abang Johari remains optimistic about Sarawak’s bright future, given the State’s abundant resources, international recognition for its renewable energy efforts, and its proactive steps to elevate its economy.
“We are blessed, and the genuine intentions of the Sarawak government, sincere leadership, high integrity, and stable political environment without discord are the qualities that will ensure Sarawak’s continued progress,” he added. — DayakDaily
