KUCHING: Sarawak’s ability to generate its own revenue serves as the foundation for strengthening state finances, enabling the implementation of more infrastructure and basic amenity projects for the rakyat's wellbeing.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg stated that the changing economic landscape requires Sarawak to be more self-reliant in financial management by leveraging its own resources and authority.

He noted that Sarawak's current development achievements are a direct continuation of past leaders' efforts who laid the groundwork for the state's progress.

“Our situation has changed, and our approach to managing the economy has also changed, where we cannot rely 100 per cent on others. We must stand on our own two feet.

“Sarawak today can stand on its own two feet, and these feet must be strong. We hold fast to our foundation under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63); that is our foundation,” he said.

He said this in his speech at the Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) Southern Zone Special Convention 2026 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on Sunday.

Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari explained that self-generated revenue enables Sarawak to implement various development projects, including expanding electricity supply to longhouses in interior areas that previously faced funding constraints.

Consequently, efforts to strengthen state revenue sources must continue to ensure Sarawak maintains a sustainable financial position to meet development needs and elevate the living standards of the rakyat. — UKASnews

Prepared by: Nur Nabilla
Photos: Ibanez Jeffrey
Translator: Ryan Lim