(Kuching, 24th) Under the leadership of Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, Sarawak has now begun to exhibit characteristics of a developed region.
Sarawak Governor Tun Pehin Sri Wan Junaidi stated that although Sarawak currently cannot be compared with true developed countries or regions such as Singapore, Japan, Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and South Korea, through the ‘Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030,’ Sarawak is evidently moving in the same direction.
“The main features of Sarawak’s development are a relatively high economy and income level, with Sarawak’s economic growth focusing on emerging sectors such as green energy, digital economy, and high-tech industries, in addition to oil and gas resources.”
Furthermore, the Sarawak Governor mentioned that Sarawak’s goal is to raise the per capita income of its population to levels comparable to high-income countries, which will improve the overall standard of living for its people.
Wan Junaidi said this in a special message issued in conjunction with the Christmas 2025 and New Year 2026 celebrations.
He added that Sarawak has made progress in science, technology, and renewable energy, and is currently working hard to position itself as the “Battery of ASEAN,” exporting green energy to neighboring countries.
He stated that the new international airport being built in Tanjung Embang, Samarahan, and the deep-water port in Kuching will promote economic growth, making Sarawak a regional trade and logistics hub. At the same time, the government is vigorously investing in the construction and upgrading of coastal highways, bridges, and other road networks to improve connectivity.
To further develop as a developed region, Sarawak is also focusing on improving the accessibility and quality of education, including establishing government-owned international schools, providing free higher education for Sarawakian students, and maintaining English as the main language.
Wan Junaidi said that the government also prioritizes healthcare, upgrading outdated medical facilities, especially in rural areas, to ensure all Sarawakians have access to better medical services.
He explained that financially, Sarawak’s sound fiscal management has earned it an excellent credit rating, with Malaysian rating agencies RAM Ratings and MARC Ratings consistently affirming Sarawak’s sub-sovereign rating at AAA, with a stable outlook.
“Sarawak’s financial position is strong, and by the end of 2023 it is expected to have a huge cash reserve of RM 26.9 billion, which supports its high rating.”
Therefore, he called on the people to cooperate with the Sarawak government, as this is the key to Sarawak’s progress and stability.
He further explained that without the strong support and backing of the people, it would be difficult for all of the Sarawak government’s plans and policies to achieve the goal of becoming developed and prosperous by 2030.