Sarawak Strengthens Inclusive Development In Line With PCDS 2030
KUCHING: The Sarawak Government remains committed to developing the state in a transparent, inclusive and caring manner, safeguarding the welfare of all Sarawakians, including the Chinese community, in line with the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
The Sarawak Governor, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, said that various forms of assistance and support have been provided, particularly in the areas of education, social welfare and community wellbeing, to ensure that the Chinese community benefits fairly and comprehensively from the state’s development.
He said that in 2024, the Sarawak Government under the leadership of Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg allocated approximately RM22 million to Chinese-medium schools, comprising RM12 million for Chinese National-Type Primary Schools and RM10 million for Chinese National-Type Secondary Schools.
“This represents an increase from RM9 million to RM12 million for primary schools compared with the previous year, and reflects the Sarawak Government’s efforts to support the development of student talent and strengthen multi-stream education.
“This assistance forms part of the state government’s broader efforts to develop a highly skilled human capital base and to position Sarawak as a developed state by 2030,” he said.
He made these remarks in a special message in conjunction with the Chinese New Year 2026 celebration.
Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi added that the Sarawak Government continues to recognise the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC), enabling students from Chinese independent schools to further their studies at Sarawak-owned universities, including in strategic fields such as satellite technology and aerospace.
He also noted that education at Sarawak’s public universities and higher learning institutions is being provided free of charge this year.
In terms of welfare, he said the state government has consistently implemented the Sejambak Kasih Chinese New Year Programme to ease the financial burden of low-income families.
In addition, monthly financial assistance from the Social Welfare Department (JKM), as well as allocations channelled through the Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR) for the upgrading of infrastructure and the construction of houses of worship and Chinese temples throughout Sarawak, are being continued.
Meanwhile, the Sarawak Governor emphasised that the Chinese community has long played a vital role in Sarawak’s progress, particularly in the fields of economics and entrepreneurship.
He noted that the community has been a backbone of various sectors within Sarawak’s economy, including trade, agriculture, commercial farming, modern industries, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and investment.
Beyond the economic sphere, he said the Chinese community has also made significant contributions in politics, education and social development, which have been key factors in Sarawak’s success and advancement as a progressive and harmonious region.
He also called on all Sarawakians to play an active role in the state’s development.
“Let us stand together in supporting the government’s development agenda and strengthening the economy of the Sarawak Region for the wellbeing of future generations.
“Let us continue to preserve and reinforce this spirit of goodwill and unity for our shared progress,” he added. -UKASnews
