KUCHING, Dec 31: Sarawak’s ascent to high-income status as per the World Bank classifications must be translated to real income for the people.
Applauding the Sarawak government’s effective policies and achievements, Governor of Sarawak Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud, however, emphasised that Sarawakians must not rest on their laurels, but everyone must strive to do better and benchmark themselves against the best in the world.
“The task of developing Sarawak does not rest with the government alone. The private sector, comprising big and small business enterprises, has to take this challenge and work with the State government to achieve the development agenda for common benefits.
“The future of Sarawak lies in the degree of our people’s efficiency and continuous commitment to Sarawak as a preferred investment destination. As such, every Sarawakian has an important role in ensuring that Sarawak will achieve greater progress and prosperity towards 2030 and beyond.
“All of us must continue to be committed and determined to work harder towards achieving the development goals. The commitment from all levels of society will give us the strength to face the challenges ahead,” he said in his New Year 2024 message.
Taib highlighted that it is important to put in place two objectives, namely, accelerating economic growth and addressing the development gap with a priority on improving the livelihood of the people in rural areas.
Through the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, he noted that Sarawak will continue to focus on manufacturing, agriculture, tourism, forestry and mining through enablers such as digital transformation, innovation, education and renewable and green energy.
“We take pride that Sarawak, under the able leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, has been able to achieve the present level of development as a result of the unity and harmonious relationship among the people and to manage the resources effectively despite facing many challenges along the way.
“As Sarawak celebrate 60 years of Merdeka this year, I am glad that Sarawakians have acquired the spirit of nationalism, which has enabled them to cooperate and work together in serving the interests of our beloved State and country,” he said.
Praising Sarawak as a peaceful state with cultural diversity, unity, and harmony, Taib recognised the significance of these qualities in driving development.
He also noted the historic Sarawak budget of RM12.4 billion for 2024, reflecting an 18 per cent increase from the previous year of RM10.8 billion, with a projected surplus of RM386 million.
“This is indeed another great achievement for Sarawak. Obviously, conscientious efforts must be made to push Sarawak to a higher level of development phase.
“Our hope is that by 2030, we will achieve a high-income economy. And I am optimistic that this target can be achieved through PCDS 2030.
“As we are closing the chapter on 2023, we are eagerly awaiting to usher in the year 2024 with great expectation and hope,” he said.
Taib and wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Raghad Kurdi Taib along with his family, extends wishes for a happy and prosperous New Year 2024 to all Sarawakians. — DayakDaily
