
KUCHING: In celebrating his eighth year in office as premier today, Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg pledged to build a Sarawak that is not only prosperous, but also sustainable, inclusive and resilient in the next five years.
Abang Johari, who took over as chief minister on Jan 13, 2017, after the demise of Pehin Sri Adenan Satem two days earlier, said the next five years represent a critical juncture for Sarawak.
"With bold vision, strategic action and unwavering commitment, we can transform challenges into opportunities and aspirations into reality."
He said this when addressing a gathering of state civil servants, Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), business community and non-governmental organisations at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching here.
"While our immediate focus is on the next five years, our aspirations extend well beyond 2030.
"Sarawak's journey is one of continuous progress, where each milestone is a stepping stone towards an even greater vision.
He added that to ensure sustained success, "we must institutionalise good governance and accountability, remain agile in responding to global and regional shifts, and foster a culture of collaboration, innovation and lifelong learning".
The premier said he expected the year 2025 to promise the state more success, adding that he is sure the acquisition of MASwings from the Malaysia Aviation Group towards creating the state's own airline will be achieved in the first quarter of 2025, giving the state the pride and autonomy in the aviation sector.
"The ongoing acquisition of MASwings, now in its final stage, will also position Sarawak as a gateway to Asean."
Many basic infrastructure projects, such as bridges, roads, schools, clinics, water and electricity supply, would be completed in the next few years, he added.
Telecommunications access will also be wider to ensure that every community, especially in rural areas, has equal opportunities in the digital world.
"All the results of these efforts are expected to improve the living standards of the people, strengthen the local economy, and attract more investments to Sarawak."
He said the 2025 State Budget with an allocation of RM15.8 billion, the biggest in Sarawak's history, indicated the state government's commitment to driving transformative change and economic progress.
"It is now critical for all agencies to remain focused and dedicated in ensuring the execution of programmes and projects are expedited and implemented efficiently."
He said preparations for the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) spanning the period of 2026 to 2030 were already underway, with extensive consultations across ministries, industries, and civil society to ensure an inclusive and comprehensive strategy.
He said this process also involved reviewing 12MP achievements, allowing the state government to build on its successes as it charts the course forward.
"The Sarawak Economic Action Council, comprising members of the Cabinet, academicians, industry players and government officials, will also be called to discuss and finalise the strategies and way forward under the 13MP."