KUCHING:The people of Sarawak must continue moving forward together towards efforts to become a high-income, advanced region by 2030.
Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, in his National Day message on the eve of the celebration, called on Sarawakians to throw their support behind their state government in its journey towards "sustainable economic policies based on sustainable resources and technology".
He said in the 61 years since Sarawak agreed to the formation of Malaysia, Sarawak has continued to progress and remain competitive in various fields to strengthen and transform its economy, particularly as the world begins to shift towards clean energy in efforts to combat climate change.
Abang Johari pointed out that as early as 2017, Sarawak made strides in developing a digital economy, followed by initiatives towards a hydrogen economy, sustainable resource development, clean energy, and now exploring initiatives to develop the compound chip and aerospace industries, alongside efforts to downstream oil and gas resources.
"After the world was severely affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government continued to take bold and proactive steps by implementing the Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS2030) in 2023 as the main platform towards making Sarawak a high-income, advanced region by 2030."
He reminded the people of the economic strategy's three main pillars that emphasizes on economic prosperity, social inclusiveness and environmental sustainability to transform Sarawak's economy.
The result is Sarawak is now leading new economic branches and has become a reference for other regions within and outside the country, he said.
"Sarawak has been able to move quickly over the past seven years due to relatively stable social and political conditions.
"Therefore, in conjunction with this year's National Day, I urge the people of Sarawak to continue moving forward together to build a brighter future for Sarawak and also for Malaysia."
Abang Johari said with the spirit of "Segulai, Sejalai" (Iban for moving in unity) and solidarity, he is confident that Sarawak and Malaysia will continue to progress and become respected and admired regions in this area and be respected by the global community.
Meanwhile, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah, in his message, said National Day is not just a day of remembrance, but honours the courage and sacrifices of the country's forefathers, who fought tirelessly to secure Malaysia's independence, including in Sabah and Sarawak.
"It is our responsibility to continue with their legacy by preparing our nation for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.
"Today, we face a rapidly changing world, where technology, innovation, and globalisation are reshaping our lives," he said.
So as Malaysians celebrate their unity and freedom, Uggah said they should also commit to equipping themselves and the future generations with the knowledge, skills and resilience needed to thrive in this new era.
"Our diversity is our strength, and by working together, we can build a Malaysia that is not only strong and united but progressive and innovative."