KUCHING: The success of Sarawak's development agenda towards 2030 must not be measured solely by the amount of funding spent or the number of projects implemented, but by the actual outcomes achieved and benefits delivered to the people.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg said every government ministry, department and agency must ensure development plans are translated into effective implementation that improves the people's quality of life.

According to him, the implementation period of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) from 2026 to 2030 represents a decisive phase in realising the aspirations of the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.

"Our success is not merely measured by the allocations spent or projects implemented, but by the outcomes achieved and the benefits experienced by the people.

"Every ministry, department and agency must understand their respective roles and ensure their efforts complement one another," he said.

He said this when delivering his address at the Civil Service Day (HPA) celebration and SCSICA Awards 2026 here on Wednesday.

The Premier added that the public expect to see roads and essential infrastructure completed, accessible and reliable public services, greater economic opportunities and tangible improvements in their quality of life.

He therefore called for a shift in government administration from a culture that focuses heavily on processes and activities to one that prioritises outcomes and impact on the people.

He explained that assessing the effectiveness of programmes must also take into account whether public expenditure creates value and whether completed projects deliver their intended benefits.

Citing the Sumbangan Keperluan Asas Sarawak (SKAS) initiative as an example, he emphasised that its effectiveness should not be measured merely by the implementation of the programme, but by the extent to which assistance reaches eligible recipients, including those in rural and remote areas.

According to him, effective coordination between agencies, careful planning and efficient service delivery are essential to ensure assistance reaches those who need it and that no one is left behind.

Meanwhile, Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari urged all ministries and agencies to accelerate project implementation and promptly address any weaknesses or constraints that could hinder the state's development progress.

"We must ensure every plan is followed by appropriate action. Any weaknesses or constraints in implementation must be identified and addressed immediately to prevent disruptions to planned progress.

"I call upon all civil servants to act with full commitment, take the necessary steps to promptly address implementation constraints and ensure the intended outcomes are achieved," he stressed.

He also reminded that time is running short to achieve Sarawak's development targets by 2030, calling for faster action, closer cooperation and continuous monitoring across the government administration. -UKASnews