By Amanda L
KUCHING, Oct 20: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has assured that Sarawak’s economy remains resilient despite global economic challenges, with revenue almost doubling from RM7.6 billion in 2021 to RM14.2 billion in 2024.
He said that the surge of investments across manufacturing, renewable energy and digital industries reflects Sarawak’s steady progress toward achieving the goals outlined in the Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
“Building upon this foundation, Sarawak continues to attract strong investor confidence. Since 2021, we have secured RM104.4 billion in approved investments across manufacturing, renewable energy, and digital industries.
“Our progress shows that Sarawak is not only resource-rich but also opportunity-rich, driven by clear policies, green transition and credible leadership.
“We may be affected by global factors such as tariffs and commodity prices, but overall, we are okay,” he said during the Sarawak Economic Conference and the launch of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) 2026–2030 at the Sheraton Hotel here today.
The Premier highlighted that Sarawak’s economic growth has remained steady since the pandemic, rebounding from a contraction of 6.7 per cent in 2020 to a strong 7.1 per cent growth in 2022, and maintaining an average of 3.9 per cent between 2022 and 2024.
According to Abang Johari, the achievement reflects renewed economic strength underpinned by political stability, fiscal discipline and strategic planning, which have earned Sarawak recognition as a high-income region by the World Bank since 2023.
“The State’s economic progress has brought real benefits to the people. Employment has increased from 1.10 million in 2021 to 1.21 million in 2024, while the unemployment rate has dropped from 4.5 per cent to 3.4 per cent,” he noted.
At the same time, he highlighted that median household income rose by 21.1 per cent from RM4,544 in 2019 to RM5,504 in 2024, alongside a decline in poverty rates from 9.0 per cent to 8.4 per cent, with hardcore poverty reduced to just 0.1 per cent.
Abang Johari also underscored Sarawak’s commitment to sustainability, noting that more than 35 million trees have been planted and hydropower now supplies over 60 per cent of the State’s total energy generation.
“Sarawak’s growth is not only strong and inclusive, but also sustainable and responsible,” he affirmed.
With a solid foundation and clear direction under the 13MP, the Premier expressed confidence that Sarawak is well-positioned to continue its transformation into a high-income, green and globally competitive economy. — DayakDaily
