By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Sept 13: Since taking over leadership from the late Pehin Sri Adenan Satem in 2017, the Sarawak government, under Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, has invested nearly RM40 billion in development initiatives across the region.
As highlighted by Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas) in a special commentary for the 61st Malaysia Day, these initiatives are part of a strategic effort to ensure Sarawak’s continued progress towards becoming a developed, high-income economy by 2030.
Central to this vision is Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, a comprehensive framework designed to drive inclusive progress and prosperity for all Sarawakians.
Notably, the Sarawak government acquired the Bakun Hydroelectric Power (HEP) dam from the federal government for RM2.5 billion, alongside servicing an additional RM5.6 billion in outstanding loans.
Other major initiatives include RM5.1 billion for water and electricity supplies; RM2.25 billion for communications infrastructure; RM6 billion for the Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS), which will introduce hydrogen-powered Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) vehicles; and RM11 billion for the construction of coastal highways, including eight major bridges.
Additionally, RM1.5 billion has been allocated to each of the nine Regional Corridor Development Authority (Recoda) agencies, including the Ulu Rajang Development Agency (URDA), Highland Development Agency (HDA), North Region Development Agency (NRDA), Sri Aman Development Agency (SADA), Integrated Regional Samarahan Development Agency (IRSDA), Betong Division Development Agency (BDDA), Rajang Delta Development Agency (RADDA), Mid-Rajang Development Agency (MiRRDA) formerly known as Rascom Development Agency (RASDA), and Greater Kuching Coordinated Development Agency (GKCDA).
In total, the amount is a staggering RM39.95 billion.
It is worthy to note that these projects do not yet account for two significant acquisitions under negotiation: MASwings and Affin Bank, which are expected to cost Sarawak billions more.
How did the Sarawak government manage to secure such a vast amount of funding?
The answer is multifaceted, but at its core lies a strategic move by Abang Johari’s administration: the introduction of a five per cent State Sales Tax (SST) on oil and gas products in Sarawak.
Since its implementation in 2019, the SST has generated a substantial RM14.7 billion for Sarawak’s coffers as of October 2023, averaging around RM2.94 billion annually.
This bold financial strategy has provided Sarawak with a robust revenue stream, enabling significant investments in development.
Moving forward, the Sarawak government continues to pursue innovative strategies to attract more foreign investment and diversify its economy.
Abang Johari’s administration is keen on tapping into Sarawak’s potential in green and renewable energy, including hydro, solar, and hydrogen power.
These initiatives are part of the broader shift towards a new economy that also embraces emerging sectors like carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS).
In addition to economic initiatives, Abang Johari’s administration remains committed to the ongoing struggle for greater autonomy under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
This fight is supported not only by Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) lawmakers but also by opposition parties and various non-governmental organisations (NGOs), highlighting the unified backing for Sarawak’s rights and future prosperity. — DayakDaily
