By Nigel Edgar
KOTA SAMARAHAN, Oct 29: Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg gave assurance today that the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS)-led state government was committed to ensuring pragmatic and holistic infrastructure development for all communities, especially in the rural areas.
This is to close the economic gap between the rural and urban communities, regardless of their racial and ethnic backgrounds, for a better tomorrow for all Sarawakians.
Speaking during Universiti Malaysia Sarawak’s (Unimas) 22nd Convocation Ceremony at its campus here this morning, Abang Johari said among the efforts put up by the state government was initiating the digital economy by allocating RM1 billion to upgrade telecommunication infrastructure in the state, particularly Internet services.
He said this was to encourage economic activities in the state, especially in the rural areas, and encouraging transboundary economic activities, which in turn would place Sarawak more prominently on the world map.
“In terms of foreign investments, the state government is looking far ahead to attract foreign investors despite uncertainties in the world’s economy.
“We went on tour to China — Sarawak’s biggest investor — and have signed various memorandums to open more long-term economic and bilateral relationships with them,” he said.
Meanwhile, Abang Johari thanked Unimas for awarding him an honorary PhD in Development Economics for leading the state government to open up the state’s economy.
He said all development efforts by the state government were inclusive, and the state government would not want to see any Sarawakian, regardless of their racial and ethnic backgrounds, left behind.
“We want everyone to enjoy the fruits of our labour and not depend too much on the federal government.
“We want to continue to defend our own Sarawak’s future and ensure the aspirations of Sarawakians are fulfilled,” he said. — DayakDaily
