By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Jan 8: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s leadership has ushered Sarawak into a new era of growth and inclusivity, transforming it into a thriving, forward-looking region with a clear vision for economic prosperity, environmental sustainability, and social welfare.
Tamin assemblyman Ir Christopher Gira Sambang highlighted that, as the eighth year of Abang Johari’s leadership unfolds, his impact on Sarawak has been transformative, ushering in an unprecedented period of growth and development.
He emphasised that one of the defining milestones of Abang Johari’s tenure has been the achievement of high-income status for Sarawak, attained seven years ahead of schedule.
With the region’s gross national income (GNI) per capita surpassing USD13,205 (RM61,442) in 2022, he said this achievement underscored the Premier’s commitment to elevating Sarawak’s economic standing on the global stage.
“A key driver of Sarawak’s economic prosperity has been the introduction of the Sarawak Sales Tax (SST) on petroleum and other exported goods. This policy has drastically increased Sarawak’s revenue, from a range of RM4-5 billion annually to a record RM14 billion in 2024, providing the region with the financial resources needed to fuel its ambitious development plans,” he said in a statement today.
Gira also pointed to Sarawak’s booming trade, which reached a 10-year high of RM 217.2 billion in 2022, reflecting a remarkable 44 per cent growth.
“This signifies Sarawak’s expanding role in global trade under Abang Johari’s guidance,” he added.
Looking ahead, the Premier has laid out a bold roadmap for Sarawak’s future with the Sarawak Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which aims to double the region’s economy from RM136 billion in 2019 to RM 282 billion by 2030, with a target annual growth rate of 6-8 per cent.
Gira noted, “This vision positions Sarawak as a competitive economic hub in the region.”
In addition to economic growth, Sarawak is leading the way in sustainability. Under Abang Johari’s leadership, Sarawak is actively pursuing a green economy and is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
“The Premier’s commitment to green energy and decarbonisation aligns with the Paris Agreement and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come,” Gira emphasised.
He noted that Sarawak’s forward-thinking approach to energy transition and decarbonisation has garnered international recognition. The Premier has been invited to share the region’s experiences at regional and international forums in Europe, Singapore, and Japan, discussing Sarawak’s journey towards a green economy.
Gira further praised Abang Johari’s focus on reducing poverty and improving social welfare. Through various initiatives, the Premier has worked to uplift marginalised communities and foster an inclusive society that ensures no one is left behind.
A key example of Abang Johari’s commitment to social inclusivity is the establishment of the Unit for Other Religions (Unifor).
“Unifor plays a pivotal role in supporting non-Muslim religious communities by ensuring they receive the necessary attention and support. A prime example of Unifor’s work is the development of the Unifor Complex in Kuching. This state-of-the-art facility includes a nine-storey office tower, nine shoplots, and a hall capable of accommodating up to 1,000 people.”
Set to be operational by early 2025, Gira expressed confidence that the complex will serve as a hub for social and religious inclusivity, reinforcing Sarawak’s commitment to unity and community development.
As Sarawak continues to thrive under Premier Abang Johari’s guidance, Gira remains optimistic that his legacy of transformation will benefit generations to come, ensuring a bright and prosperous future for the people of Sarawak.
Abang Johari will mark his eighth year as Premier of Sarawak on Jan 13, 2025. — DayakDaily
