KUCHING: The chief minister has called on the private sector to work closely with the state government to ensure the state economy continues to thrive.
Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said although the government had introduced many initiatives to spearhead new directions for the economy, the private sector must also be fully involved in driving Sarawak’s economic growth.
“While the state government commits to setting up a world-class ICT infrastructure, a vibrant digital economy requires active participation of the local business community by utilising the infrastructure to add value to their businesses.
“Indeed, politicians and government servants can at best provide the direction and framework for the economy, but it is the private sector that must do all the hard work of getting things moving,” he said during the Sarawak State Entrepreneur of the Year Award (EOYS) 2021 ceremony at Imperial Hotel on Monday (Jan 24).
He added that the key to realising Sarawak as a developed economy by 2030 is the involvement of Sarawak businesses to invest in projects in Sarawak.
“Therefore, my government will step up our efforts in promoting entrepreneurship and investment among Sarawakians who are keen to develop and implement their projects,” he said.
Abang Johari also mentioned that the state government will implement a three-pronged strategy in the 2022 Budget, that is to continue to diversify its economy with special focus on modernisation of agriculture, strengthening infrastructure, advancing tourism and accelerating human capital development.
“Second is to accelerate rural transformation initiatives with the implementation of various major infrastructure works such as roads and bridges, basic public amenities and facilities that would help spur economic growth and stimulate demand.
“And third is to continue to enhance the State revenue through revenue re-engineering so that the State will have fiscal flexibility in managing its financial resources and in strategising its development agenda.
“This will enable the state to implement infrastructure projects and basic amenities throughout the state expeditiously and at the same time build ample reserves to weather any eventualities,” he said.
He said these strategies are critical in meeting the state’s objectives to accelerate development in the state to ensure balanced development between the urban and rural areas.
“The state will vigorously intensify the implementation of high impact and people-centric projects in line with its development agenda,” he said.
With that, he said more areas will be opened up for productive economic activities that will provide greater job and business opportunities.
“This will eventually uplift and enhance the well-being of the people, especially the rural community,” said Abang Johari.
