By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Jan 13: Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has unveiled an ambitious vision to position Sarawak as the “Norway of the East,” leveraging its natural resources, skilled workforce, and innovative policies.
Speaking during a townhall session marking his 8th anniversary as Premier, held at the Hikmah Exchange and Event Centre (HEEC) tonight, Abang Johari emphasised the importance of learning from countries that share similarities with Sarawak in terms of resources, landmass, and population size.
“For me, I have studied countries in Scandinavia—Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Denmark. If you analyse them, their sizes are roughly similar to Sarawak. Their population is around five million, while we are close to three million.
“Why were they able to progress and what enabled them to achieve the advancements we see today? From my research, it is determination and the right policies,” he said.
Abang Johari also noted Norway’s success in leveraging its strategic location by the North Sea, with its strength rooted in oil and gas, as well as a highly skilled and specialized workforce.
He highlighted Norway’s resilience against economic challenges in the European Union (EU), attributing it to effective resource management.
Beyond oil and gas, Norway has embraced clean energy and advanced technology, ensuring sustained economic growth and stability.
“This is why I plan for Sarawak to become the ‘Norway of the East.’
“To reach that target, we must integrate all factors that enable progress. We cannot remain at the back; we must move forward and work hard,” he stressed. – DayakDaily
