KUCHING: Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar has lauded initiatives taken by the Sarawak government to ensure the well-being of Sarawakians.
“I am confident that these measures will continue to support the socioeconomic development of the state and ensure that the people of Sarawak live in a more prosperous and peaceful environment,” said Wan Junaidi in his Hari Raya message.
“Through comprehensive assessments and a more productive integrated approach, including targeted assistance, job matching, skills training, and other various initiatives, the socioeconomic situation in Sarawak is expected to continue improving, in line with the growth of the state’s income and current economic development.”
He said the Special Allowance Incentive for Sarawak public servants, ranging from RM400 to RM700 per month starting January 2025, is a significant initiative in improving the welfare of this group.
In addition, the Sarawak government has allocated RM450 million through the Sarawak Basic Needs Contribution (SKAS), which is being distributed to more than 886,288 recipients.
He expressed hope that this initiative would help the people, particularly in preparing for Hari Raya celebrations.
“As a result of the initiatives carried out, I have been informed that 13,798 household heads (KIR) have successfully moved out of the hardcore poverty category,” he added.
On infrastructure, he said with the completion of the Pan Borneo Highway project in Sarawak costing RM16 billion and spanning 786 kilometres, he is confident the people’s travels during the festive season will be more comfortable and smooth.
He said this project not only shortens travel time but also opens up more economic opportunities for rural communities.
“We thank the federal government and the Sarawak government for the implementation of this significant infrastructure project.
“Additionally, the state’s success in increasing revenue to RM14.2 billion in 2024, compared to RM13.1 billion in 2023, proves that Sarawak is on a strong path to continue progressing,” he opined.
He said various infrastructure development projects such as roads, bridges, rural clean water supply, and electricity have shown impressive achievements.
Among them, rural clean water supply has now reached 85 per cent and is expected to reach 100 per cent by 2030, while rural electricity supply has reached 98.6 per cent, benefiting the rural population.
