By Karen Bong
SIBU, July 22: Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has hinted at a “special gift” for the people of Sarawak, which he is expected to unveil during the Sarawak Day Assembly tonight.
The Premier dropped the teaser during a Townhall Session held at University Technology of Sarawak (UTS) in Sibu today, held in conjunction with the Sarawak Day celebrations. The session was moderated by Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information, and UKAS) Datuk Abdullah Saidol.
Reflecting on Sarawak’s transformative economic journey, Abang Johari shared how the State’s bold shift toward a data-driven digital economy and the assertion of its constitutional rights have significantly expanded its revenue base.
“When we started implementing the State Sales Tax (SST) on petroleum products, our State revenue grew from RM7 billion to RM14 billion. But this is not the end, there is more to come.
“I have a special gift for the people of Sarawak, and I will announce it tonight. Be sure to listen to my speech,” he told the audience.
During the session, the Premier outlined the pivotal policy decisions that shaped Sarawak’s current development trajectory, including the establishment of the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030) and the formation of Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) to prioritise local governance under the “Sarawak First” mantra.
He emphasised that increased state revenues directly benefit Sarawakians through massive infrastructure projects and human capital investments, highlighting the allocation of RM260 million this year alone to fund free tertiary education for local students at State-owned universities.
Earlier, Abang Johari arrived at the UTS campus on a scooter, drawing cheers and applause from students and attendees gathered for the event. — DayakDaily
