KUCHING, Sept 28: Sarawak Business Federation (SBF) lauds the federal government’s commitment of up to 18 per cent of total basic development allocation annually for Sarawak under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) as timely for the State’s post-Covid-19 recovery.
SBF president Datuk Abang Abdul Karim Tun Openg said he believes that a sizable amount will be channelled to much needed sectors for improving infrastructure and basic facilities in Sarawak in order to better rural development.
“This generous amount is timely as it will help Sarawak in its Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 implementation.
“We wish to see Sarawak recover from this pandemic with a stronger and more resilient economy and assured of its future prosperity with more sustainable socio-economic development.
“We also hope that all these could be achieved including resolving the demands under Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63),” he said in a press statement today.
Prime Minister Dato Sri Ismail Sabri Yaakob told the Dewan Rakyat yesterday that Sabah and Sarawak’s development will continue to be given priority under 12MP with the two Borneon States to continue receiving between 15 and 18 per cent each of the total basic development allocation annually.
“A significant portion of this allocation will be channelled to the economic sectors that would contribute towards improving infrastructure and basic facilities in the two States,” he said.
The plan for Sabah and Sarawak, he added, will focus on enhancing socio-economic development so as these States will be on par with Peninsular Malaysia states.
Ismail Sabri emphasised that priority will be given to solidifying the provision of infrastructure, optimising economic potential, improving access to social services, enhancing inclusive development and strengthening cooperation between federal agencies and state governments.
“The implementation of these measures is expected to reduce disparities between Sabah, Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia and improve the wellbeing of the rakyat,” he said.
Under the plan, basic infrastructure provision will be intensified in both States, including upgrading and constructing roads and bridges, improving access to clean water and electricity and enhancing broadband coverage. — DayakDaily
