By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, July 26: Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg today declared that Sarawak has transformed itself into a State on par with the world in just six years through bold policies, major infrastructure development and economic reforms.
Speaking at Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu’s (PBB) Special Convention for the Central Zone in Sibu today, the PBB president said the government’s achievements over the past six years have laid a strong foundation for Sarawak’s future.
“People can see for themselves what has happened in Sarawak today. It has only been six years, not 60 years.
“We are already on par with the world. We are producing semiconductors, embracing digitalisation and renewable energy. Today, I was even welcomed by a robot wearing a PBB shirt,” he said in a recording of his speech later shared with DayakDaily.
Abang Johari said PBB, as the backbone of Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), had introduced new ideas and policies that enabled the State to chart its own development path together with its coalition partners.
Among the achievements he highlighted were the construction of some of Malaysia’s longest river bridges, improved road connectivity throughout the Central Region, and the extension of electricity and treated water supply to rural communities.
He said districts such as Daro, Igan, Mukah and Kapit have benefited from improved infrastructure, while regional development agencies such as the Upper Rajang Development Agency (URDA) and Rajang Delta Development Agency (RADDA) were established to accelerate economic growth.
According to him, ferry crossings have gradually been replaced by bridges, while improved road links have connected rural communities and opened up new economic opportunities across the region.
Using Daro as an example, Abang Johari said the district no longer faces electricity supply issues after being connected to the State grid, replacing its previous reliance on diesel-powered generators.
He said reliable electricity has also improved the quality of life in rural communities, enabling longhouses and villages to enjoy modern amenities and better living conditions.
“All these have been achieved in just six years, not 60 years.
“In just six years, we built bridges, roads, connected rural communities and delivered essential services to the people across the Central Region,” he said.
Also present were PBB deputy presidents Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan; senior vice presidents Dato Sri Fadillah Yusof and Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom; permanent chairman Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar; secretary-general Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi who is also the chairman for PBB Convention in Central Zone; and vice president Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee who is the deputy chairman for PBB Convention in Central Zone. — DayakDaily
