Abang Johari: Continuing Cooperation with the Federal Government to Fully Promote Sarawak's Comprehensive Development

(Miri, 10th) Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari stated that the Sarawak government will continue to closely cooperate with the federal government with the spirit of 'Segulai Sejalai' (Moving Forward Together) to fully promote the goal of Sarawak becoming a high-income advanced state by 2030.

He pointed out that although he was unable to personally attend the opening ceremony of the 'Program Bakti MADANI (PBM) 2025' Miri station held at the Miri Indoor Stadium today, he had entrusted Sarawak's Minister of Utilities and Communications, Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi to officiate and read his speech on his behalf.

This grand event aims to deepen the service of the federal and state governments into communities, benefit the grassroots, and enhance the public's understanding and participation in government assistance measures.

Abang Johari mentioned that the event was originally scheduled for early this year, but due to severe floods and landslides in Miri and Bintulu in February, the government needed to focus on disaster relief work, hence the decision to postpone it.

'I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all the security forces, volunteers, and relevant units involved in the relief work.'

He stated that this event not only demonstrated the spirit of cooperation between the federal and Sarawak governments but also emphasized the firm commitment of both parties to the welfare of the people.

'I would like to thank Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar's leadership under the unity government for actively promoting the vision of simultaneous development of Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia through the 'Malaysia MADANI' philosophy.'

SCORE becomes the main engine driving Sarawak's economic growth
In the speech, Abang Johari reviewed the "Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy" (SCORE), which since its launch in 2008, has become a major engine of the state's economic growth, attracting investments exceeding RM125 billion and creating over 50,000 jobs.

He specifically named the Samalaju Industrial Park, which has now developed into a base for several high-tech heavy industries with a total investment of RM57.2 billion.

He noted that the development of SCORE not only relies on hydroelectric resources but has also ventured into hydrogen and other green energy fields. 'We will continue to promote economic diversification to drive Sarawak's economic transformation with high-value-added industries.'

To further promote the development of areas covered by SCORE, the Sarawak government has established three regional development agencies—the Highland Development Agency (HDA), the Northern Region Development Agency (NRDA), and the Upper Rajang Development Agency (URDA)—each led by a senior minister.

'A total of RM4.5 billion has been allocated for the advancement of 247 infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, electricity, and water supply systems.'

The people are the core goal of development
He added that although today's event was not as large in scale as the 'Malaysia MADANI People's Plan' held with the Prime Minister on Miri Boulevard last September, the enthusiastic participation of the people has fully demonstrated that such community-focused platforms remain popular.

'We hope that through these platforms, people will gain a deeper understanding of the services and aid provided by the government, thereby strengthening consensus and a sense of identity to jointly contribute to Sarawak's prosperous development.'