KUCHING: Sarawakians are reminded to not dwell on trivial matters and instead work together to develop Sarawak’s economy which will position the state as force to be reckoned with.
In stressing this, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the state is well on track to achieve a developed state status by 2030.
“As Premier, I want to tell our Chinese friends and fellow Sarawakians is that the environment now is conducive for businesses to flourish.
“Our beloved Sarawak is quite on its way to achieve a developed state status by 2030. With our political stability and social cohesiveness, I am confident we can achieve that.
“Let us not dwell on trivialities but always look at the bigger picture to enable Sarawak to stand tall as a strong economic force in Malaysia and in the region,” he said in his Chinese New Year message.
Meanwhile, Abang Johari said Sarawak has been at the top of the list for investors who are keen to collaborate with the state government in various economic areas.
He said this was possible due to the state’s economic development and the environment it creates.
“The progressive environment of our economic development in the last few years is quite evident as businesses, corporate figures, banks and foreign envoys continue to come calling to express their interest to collaborate with Sarawak”.
Abang Johari said 2023 was a remarkable year as the state notched several achievements particularly the establishment of the Sarawak Sovereign and Future Wealth Fund (SSWF).
“SSWF was set up with an initial seed capital of RM8 billion and progressive yearly appropriation of between RM400 million to RM600 million until 2034 from the Sarawak government.
“The seed capital will be invested in the relevant portfolios as determined by the Board of Guardians that comprise international monetary figures so that the fund will grow and increase our savings,” he said in his Chinese New Year message.
Abang Johari said the fund’s board will report to the Dewan Undangan Negeri along with the provision that there will be no withdrawal for the next 20 years under normal circumstances.
“We are able to set up the SSWF because Sarawak has quite a strong saving and our revenue continues to rise to record figures.
“Last year Sarawak’s revenue stood at RM13.3 billion and I believe it will continue to rise next year, and in the years ahead, as our economy continues to strengthen,” he said.
On another note, Abang Johari extended his Chinese New Year greetings to all Sarawakians, adding that 2024 being the Year of the Dragon holds a lot of promises and hopes for all Sarawakians.
“I sincerely hope that all our Chinese friends are high in spirit as they enter the year of the dragon together to transform our beloved Land of the Hornbills into a developed state towards 2030.
“Finally, let me once again wish all our Chinese friends Gong Xi Fa Cai. May the Year of The Dragon be another successful year for Sarawak and for all of us”.
