MANILA: The development of Sarawak must be planned with a long-term vision to ensure its benefits are enjoyed not only by the people today, but also by future generations.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg said leaders have a responsibility to ensure every development plan implemented today is able to leave a legacy that provides lasting benefits to the people.

According to him, this approach forms the basis of Sarawak's long-term planning spanning various sectors including energy, technology, transport and economic development.

"When we are here, we need to leave a legacy that will benefit future generations.

“Change is the only thing that is constant, and society needs to be ready to adapt to change and anticipate future developments," he said.

He said this during the Fireside Chat session with ADB held at the Multifunction Hall, ADB Headquarters here on Tuesday.

Commenting further, the Sarawak Premier said new technologies play an important role in shaping the state’s development future, including Sarawak’s decision to adopt hydrogen technology for its Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) public transport system.

According to him, although new technologies generally involve high costs in their early stages, these costs may decline as technology advances and efficiency improves.

"Hydrogen is expensive at the moment, but there may be new technologies that will reduce the cost of producing hydrogen," he said.

Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari added that the development of Sarawak must be carried out in a balanced manner, taking into account economic growth, the interests of the people and environmental sustainability.

He stressed that all three elements must progress in tandem to ensure Sarawak’s development remains sustainable and continues to benefit the people in the long term. -UKASnews