KUCHING: Sarawak’s journey to becoming a better state is rooted in hope, a fervent hope that the Land of the Hornbill will be transformed into an advanced economy like other developed economies around the world.
In his 2024 Christmas message, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg expressed that, just like Christmas, he understands the importance of the day being about hope for Christians.
“Mere hope is not enough; we must work earnestly to make things happen to achieve our vision of turning Sarawak into a developed and high-income economy by 2030,” he emphasised.
Abang Johari further mentioned that the state is following a well-structured roadmap towards 2030 as outlined in the Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030. This strategy aims to create economic prosperity, ensure inclusivity in society, and maintain a sustainable environment.
“The acknowledgement by the World Bank that Sarawak is a high-income economy reflects the success of our efforts under the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government so far. However, we will not rest on our laurels,” he added.
He affirmed that Sarawak will continue to strategize its economy to make it dynamic and robust as the state progresses with its green economy policy and programs in alignment with global efforts to combat global warming.
The state has been implementing a massive program to enhance road and internet connectivity to facilitate economic growth, which it aims to complete by 2030. This is evident from the significant increase in the state budget to RM15.8 billion in 2025 compared to eight years ago, excluding allocations under alternative funding.
“As you may already know, over the next five to 10 years, the Sarawak government and the private sector are expected to invest around RM100 billion to execute two major projects: building a new international airport and a new deep-sea port in Kuching,” he highlighted.
“These projects, along with other large and strategic endeavours in progress, are designed to propel Sarawak into a new economic force in the Asian region,” he continued.
He emphasized that business is no longer usual for the state, necessitating the creation of an ecosystem that will transition the economy into a new era of technological and economic advancement, similar to countries in the Middle East such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Apart from the new seaport, he expressed confidence that the proposed new international airport in Kuching will add another x-factor to the ecosystem, making Sarawak appealing to businesses, investments, and visitors.
“We will construct the new, seamless airport using our state funds to expedite its implementation,” he assured.
“The construction of the new airport will enhance the role of our new airline, following the takeover of MASwings, as our regional carrier connecting Sarawak with regional and other destinations,” he explained.
Acknowledging that managing an airline is challenging, he stated that investing in the new airline is essential to tailor it to Sarawak’s needs with a distinct business model.
“In this hopeful Christmas spirit, these are some of the strategic assets the state will develop and acquire in the next five to 10 years,” he mentioned.
“Though it will take time, we hope to elevate Sarawak to a level that aligns us with other developed countries.”
“We must work diligently to make this vision a reality and avoid being sidetracked by elements that aim to keep us trailing behind. This is our time as Sarawakians to stand united and resolute in shaping our destiny with courage,” he concluded.
