(Kuching, 13th) Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari announced that approximately RM100 billion will be injected into Sarawak's economy over the next five years.
He stated that this investment will support two transformative projects: the construction of a new international airport and a deep sea port in Kuching.
“Both projects aim to position Sarawak as a rising economic power in the region.”
Abang Johari made these remarks today at the Sarawak Premier launch event for 2025 held at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching.
He mentioned that the proposed Tanjung Embang deep sea port will be developed in collaboration with the Sarawak Petroleum Corporation, and will serve as a strategic gateway for energy imports and exports.
“According to Sarawak's natural gas roadmap, the port will facilitate green hydrogen refueling, LNG exports, and other energy resources, propelling Sarawak towards a transition to renewable energy.”
The Premier stated that the port will feature state-of-the-art infrastructure and smart technologies to ensure operational excellence and sustainability.
He said that the port is expected to be operational by 2030, solidifying the state’s status as a leader in sustainable energy and trade in the region.
Abang Johari also announced that the ongoing acquisition of MASwings is in its final stages, which will enable Sarawak to become a gateway to ASEAN.
“With increased fleet capacity and enhanced services, our goal is to strengthen domestic and international connectivity, particularly within a four to seven-hour flight radius, to facilitate trade, tourism, and investment over the next five years.”
The Premier declared that his government decided to invest in dredging Miri Port, which will help handle larger cargo volumes.
He said this move will enhance operational efficiency and bolster Miri Port’s role as a strategic port for international trade and regional connectivity.
Referring to last year’s largest state budget of RM15.8 billion, he emphasized that this allocation reflects the state government’s commitment to driving transformation and economic progress.
He said that now all institutions must remain focused and committed to ensuring an accelerated and effective implementation of plans and projects.
He also urged everyone to align their efforts with the key priorities of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), which will encompass 2026 to 2030.
“Preparation for the 13th Malaysia Plan is already underway with extensive consultations across ministries, industries, and civil society to ensure an inclusive and comprehensive strategy. This process also involves reviewing achievements from the 12th Malaysia Plan, enabling us to consolidate our successes while charting the way forward.”
He noted that the Sarawak Economic Action Council (SEAC), composed of cabinet members, academics, industry players, and government officials, will also be convened to discuss and determine strategies and directions under the 13th Malaysia Plan.
He stated that the efforts under the 13th Malaysia Plan will remain multifaceted to achieve the high-impact outcomes outlined in the post-2030 COVID-development strategy.
“We recognize that challenges such as climate change, economic disparities, and global uncertainty still confront us. Therefore, the focus of the 13th Malaysia Plan will be to enhance economic resilience through transformation and diversification, advance digitalization, promote social inclusiveness, and ensure sustainability and equity for all.”