Sarawak Government Explores Implementation Of Universal Basic Income
KUCHING: The Sarawak Government is currently examining the feasibility of implementing a universal basic income (UBI) for all residents in the region, as a measure to reduce poverty and economic inequality.
The concept, which is gaining global traction, aims to provide a guaranteed, unconditional financial safety net for every individual, with the hope of improving the quality of life and providing stability for the less fortunate.
The Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, stated that while the idea appears positive, its implementation requires thorough preparation and a robust financial foundation.
“Basic income is a sound concept, but it is not something that can be implemented immediately without detailed study and meticulous preparation. Its effectiveness depends on our financial strength and our ability to manage the existing pension funds.
"As a preliminary step, the Sarawak Government will hold more discussions with economic experts and other stakeholders before making any definitive decision on the matter,” he said.
He was speaking at the 74th Sarawak Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) Gala Dinner, jointly organised with the Sarawak Ministry of International Trade, Industry and Investment (MINTRED), held at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on Friday.
In the same address, Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari mentioned that the Sarawak Government is also working to strengthen the public sector, particularly through the transformation of Government-Linked Companies (GLCs) into professionally managed State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs).
He added that further details on the creation of the SOEs and the public sector transformation plan will be presented during the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting next week.
“GLCs will be converted into commercial enterprises that are 100 per cent owned by the Sarawak Government, but run professionally.
"We must select performance-oriented leaders to manage these companies. Leaders who do not perform can be dismissed without being bound by civil service regulations,” he stressed.
At the event, Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari presented the Sarawak Entrepreneur of the Year Awards (EOYS) 2025 to winners who have demonstrated outstanding success in business and made a positive impact on communities across Sarawak.
The EOYS 2025 celebrated the Master Entrepreneur category, awarded to Jordan Ong Chung Siang (SME Association of Sarawak), Aaron Tay Kok Tung (Kuching Chinese General Chamber of Commerce & Industry), Gih Kim Sin (Sarawak Housing and Real Estate Developers' Association), Tommy Raymond Jok (Orang Ulu Chamber of Commerce and Industry) and Chan Mou Kei (Sarawak Chamber of Commerce and Industry).
Meanwhile, the Outstanding Entrepreneurship Award 2025 was won by Dato' Prof (Dr) Lau Siu Wai.
The significant ceremony was also attended by SCCI Honorary Life President Datuk Seri Abang Abdul Karim Tun Datuk Abang Openg, SCCI President Datuk Philip Ting Ding Ing, Organising Chairman Dr Lu Jye Ying, and other invited guests. - UKASnews
