By Karen Bong
SARIKEI, May 14: The Sarawak government is bearing the majority of the RM1.3 billion cost to provide essential water and electricity utilities in Sarikei.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg revealed today, stressing that although such services are typically under federal jurisdiction, Sarawak has stepped up to meet the people’s needs.
“Of the RM1.3 billion needed to provide the utilities, the federal government is contributing RM300 million. The rest is shouldered by the Sarawak government,” he said during the inauguration of the new Sarawak Government Administrative Centre for the Sarikei Division.
“Utilities are basic needs. So from a practical standpoint, we have no choice but to find the money and provide for the people,” he added, highlighting Sarawak government’s proactive role in funding critical infrastructure.
Abang Johari reiterated that Sarawak’s ability to finance such large-scale projects stems from sound fiscal management and a homegrown revenue model that has steadily boosted the State’s income.
This financial strength, he said, allows Sarawak to invest in vital development initiatives, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas like Sarikei.
He also announced that he will return to Sarikei this Saturday (May 17) to officiate the Rajang Bridge—a major infrastructure project fully funded by the State.
“It’s not a problem as long as Sarawak has the funds. We work hard to raise revenue, and thank God, we’ve seen a substantial increase over the years,” he said during the event broadcasted live through Ukas Channel.
Abang Johari described the opening of the new administrative centre as a vital step toward improving public service delivery in Sarikei by creating a more efficient, accessible, and comfortable working environment for civil servants and the people they serve.
“Those in government and public service are like the bamboo and the riverbank, or like flesh and nail—interdependent. It’s our responsibility to ensure they can operate effectively,” he said, congratulating the civil service for their dedication and contribution to the people of Sarikei.
He highlighted ongoing and future development initiatives in the four districts under the Sarikei Division, which are also under the purview of the Rajang Delta Development Authority (RADDA), led by Dato Sri Len Talif Salleh. These include infrastructure upgrades for longhouses and villages.
Abang Johari attributed Sarawak’s progress to the political stability and unity among its leaders and people, which has enabled the State to focus on governance, innovation, and delivering results.
“Sarawak is peaceful because our politics is focused on good governance, not conflict. That’s why we can come up with new ideas and solutions. We are united—like Manchester United—passing the ball and scoring for the people of Sarawak,” he added.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, Sarawak Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, Malaysia’s Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability and Sarikei MP Dato Sri Huang Tiong Sii, and Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and UKAS) Datuk Abdullah Saidol were among those present. — DayakDaily
